Just last week, I was perusing Facebook one evening (when I should have been going to bed) and I came across an article about what’s really in a popular “healthy” brand of breakfast cereal. (I’m not going to bash them by name here… That’s not my point.)
While I had previously purchased some of that cereal from time to time, I can’t honestly say that the article surprised me. I generally assume that most foods are laced with GMO ingredients and pesticides these days. If it’s not from a local farmer who I know by name or slapped with the USDA Organic label, I attach my own “buyer beware” label in my mind.
So, though I wasn’t surprised by the article, it did get me thinking… My train of thought made quite a few stops. I wondered about how many people (even friends and family) had been duped by the so-called “healthy” cereal, not realizing what they were feeding their families. I contemplated the fact that I had gotten lazy and bought it a few times when I should have looked for something better. I even pondered for a few minutes what it would be like if I had millions (billions?) of dollars to lobby against big agriculture in DC. Ultimately, though, I decided that I just need to take matters into my own hands and make more granola.
Sadly, I don’t have the money to go to Washington DC and change the minds of everyone who thinks that the “food” that lines the shelves in the grocery stores is OK. But, I can vote with the dollars that I do have by focusing on local foods and organic whole ingredients instead of processed junk. While I may not be changing the world, I am choosing homemade granola over processed breakfast cereal. It doesn’t take long to make myself, and I can control the ingredients (using as many organic ones as I can find).
And, did I mention that it’s tasty? It beats flakes from a box any day.
Blueberry Flax Granola
Makes about 10 cups
- 18 ounce package of old fashioned oats
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup flax seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 7 ounces dried blueberries (about 1 1/4 cups)
Preheat the oven to 300°F.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the oats, almonds, pecans, walnuts, coconut, flax seeds, salt, cinnamon, and ginger.
In a separate bowl (or liquid measuring cup), whisk together the maple syrup and olive oil until well combined. Pour the liquids over the oats mixture and stir to evenly coat everything with the maple syrup mixture.
Transfer to a large roasting pan or two half sheet pans, spreading the granola in an even layer. Bake for about 45 minutes, stirring 2 – 3 times while baking. Allow the granola to cool in the pan. Add the dried blueberries and transfer to an airtight container. Granola will keep for a few weeks.
I read that same article and fully admit that I was one of those duped by that cereal company. It’s one I ate almost everyday in my yogurt parfait. Now I need to start making my own granola to fill that parfait void. Your version looks fantastic!
This recipe is a keeper!
I love to make granola and can’t wait to try this!!! It looks so yummy and healthy!!!
Okay, so you started with two of my arch nemeses; blueberries and flax. But, the recipe is solidly gorgeous. I’ll just swap in some cranberries and wheat germ.
I read that same article. It made me sad.
No blueberries? They’re not my favorite, but Darron loves them. I actually find that the dried ones are tastier than the fresh ones (for me).
Cranberries and wheat germ will be perfect, though. I like dried cherries, too, if you can get your hands on them. :)
I am such a huge fan of making my own granola!! Which reminds me, I’m out and need to make up a batch :) I’m loving the combo you have here!
I love dried blueberries but I have never thought to add them to granola. Great idea, Jen!
Homemade granola is so much better! And it’s so easy!! Love this blueberry version :)
This looks great and perfect for when you’re in a rush :)
This recipe is perfect :) it looks so delicious, just right for the morning!
I’m definitely making this one next! YUM!
This is in the oven right now! I can’t wait! Thanks for the recipe :)