Preparing a Balanced Breakfast: Homemade Granola Recipe

Preparing a Balanced Breakfast: Homemade Granola Recipe

Granola is a nutritious and versatile option for a balanced breakfast. Making your own granola at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize it to your taste. This easy recipe results in crunchy, delicious granola that pairs perfectly with yogurt, milk, or as a topping for fruits.

Ingredients:

• 300 g rolled oats
• 100 g nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans), chopped
• 50 g seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds)
• 100 g honey or maple syrup
• 50 g coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 100 g dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots), chopped
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped nuts, seeds, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

3. Prepare Wet Mixture:

   • In a small saucepan, heat the honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil (or vegetable oil) over low heat until melted and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine and Coat:

   • Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.

5. Bake:

   • Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown and crisp.

6. Add Dried Fruit:

   • Once out of the oven, let the granola cool completely. Once cooled, stir in the dried fruit.

7. Store:

   • Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Success:

• Customize Your Granola: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits based on your preferences.

• Even Baking: Stirring the granola halfway through baking ensures even cooking and prevents burning.

• Cool Completely: Allow the granola to cool completely before storing to maintain its crispiness.