basic granola

This vegan granola recipe is packed with fruit and nuts, which makes it a great way to start the day. A big bowl will give you a tonne of energy and flavour that is sure to keep you satisfied – it may even help stave off some of those pesky elevensies cravings (I know those all too well!). If you’re worried it’s going to be a hassle to make then let me tell you now: it’s so simple and definitely worthwhile. The best part is that once you’ve given one recipe a go, you’ll be raring to experiment with your own flavour combinations. Swap out the agave syrup for maple or sub the nuts for more seeds – the world is your vegan oyster.

iNGREDIENTS

• 2 1/2 cups of rolled oats*

• 1/2 cup of mixed nuts and seeds (we had pecans, almonds, pine kernels and sunflower seeds)

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp light brown sugar

• 1/4 cup melted sunflower margarine or vegetable oil

• 3 tbsp agave syrup

• 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and raisins

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Start by preheating the oven to 150C, then mixing the oats, nuts**, sugar and cinnamon together in a large bowl. In a separate bowl stir the melted margarine, agave syrup and vanilla essence together, then add to the oat mixture and mix well. This may be a little difficult to combine as it stays fairly dry - persevere until it is all completely coated!

2. Spread the mixture out evenly and thinly on a tray lined with baking paper and put in the oven for 15 minutes. Take it out of the oven, move the mixture around and put back in to cook for a further 10-15 minutes, until the oats turn a golden brown colour.

3. Take out of the oven and allow to cool and crisp up. Once cooled, add the dried fruit and mix together. Place in an airtight container or Kilner jar for storage. Enjoy with some dairy-free milk of your choice for a healthy and filling breakfast!

NOTES

* to ensure this recipe is gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats.

** if you prefer the nuts a little less toasted, add them in half way through the baking instead of at the start - this is totally up to your preference.