Making your own granola is actually quite easy, you get to choose what goes in and that ensures no nasties! For my version I've have used Gluten free oats. Pure oats are naturally gluten-free and safe for most people with gluten intolerance. However, with popular commercial brands it often contaminated with gluten because they may be processed in the same facilities as gluten-containing grains like wheat, rye, and barley. So if you wish to be celiac safe or have an acute gluten allergy, look out for the packs that are labeled as ''Glutenfree'' and if it doesn't have that label then unfortunately it means there is gluten in it.
Oats is a great source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. Whole oats also contain plant chemicals that act as antioxidants to reduce the damaging effects of chronic inflammation that is associated with various diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Ingredients
4 cups Glutenfree Oats
1/2 cup coconut flakes
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/2 cup Pistachios
1/2 cup chopped dried apricot
1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chopped almonds
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp Himalayan salt
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup maple syrup/ honey/ agave nectar (add more if you wish)
Preheat the oven to 160°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, add the oats, nuts, dry fruit, coconut flakes, cinnamon, and salt. Drizzle in the coconut oil and honey. Mix until combined. Spread it onto the baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, (ensure you rotate the pan halfway) and bake until golden brown. The oven temperature is very important, it has to be 160°C or max 175°C or else it gets burnt. Let cool before serving. You can store it in room temperature in jars and a batch like this stays well for upto 2 weeks, or in a sealed bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure you let it defrost and get back to room temperature before serving.
Homemade granola is super healthy when combined with youghurt and fresh fruit, it makes a fabulous and tummy filling breakfast.
Tips- You can use all sorts of combinations with the oats like chopped dry dates, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, pecan nuts, cranberries, pumpkin seeds, green raisins, dried kiwi, dried strawberry and so on. If you don't have an oven at home, spread all the ingredients in a large pan, slow roast it in a medium flame until your kitchen smells heavenly, and the oats browns and crisps up. I don't like my granola too sweet, but if you like it sweeter, add 1/2 cup of honey or agave instead of 1/4 cup.
