American-style Granola

Introduction

History

Granola has its roots in the late 19th century as a health food developed in several sanitariums in the United States. Its popularity surged in the 1960s with the rise of the health food movement. Since then, granola has evolved into a mainstream food item, enjoyed in various forms and flavors around the world. This American-style Granola recipe pays homage to its health-focused origins while embracing the modern love for tasty, nutritious eating.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best granola, evenly spread the mixture on the baking tray to ensure consistent baking. Stirring the granola halfway through the baking process helps achieve an even golden color and prevents burning. For added flavor and texture, consider toasting the nuts and seeds in a dry pan before adding them to the mix. Lastly, let the granola cool completely on the tray after baking to enhance its crunchiness.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this granola with your choice of milk, yogurt, or as a crunchy topping for smoothie bowls. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits like berries or sliced banana for added sweetness and nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, providing a dry heat that crisps and toasts the granola evenly. For an extra layer of flavor, consider dry roasting the nuts and seeds beforehand, as mentioned in the tips and tricks section.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nut-free version, replace the mixed chopped nuts with additional seeds, such as pumpkin or chia seeds. If honey isn't available, maple syrup or agave nectar are excellent alternatives. Coconut oil can be used in place of sunflower oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Granola is an ideal make-ahead food. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or freeze for longer storage. Having granola ready to go makes for quick and easy breakfasts or snacks.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this granola in a beautiful bowl with a dollop of yogurt and a drizzle of honey for an appealing breakfast. Layer it in a glass with yogurt and fruits to create a granola parfait, perfect for a special brunch or dessert.

Pairing Recommendations

This granola pairs beautifully with dairy or plant-based milk and yogurts. For a refreshing beverage, try it with a cold glass of almond milk or a smoothie. It also complements herbal teas and black coffee, balancing their flavors with its nutty sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the granola in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze it in a sealed bag or container. There's no need to reheat granola, but if you prefer it warm, lightly toast it in a pan over low heat for a few minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this American-style Granola contains about 250 calories, making it a nutrient-dense option that provides energy without being overly calorific. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking for a satisfying and healthful breakfast or snack.

Carbohydrates

This granola recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to start the day. Rolled oats and wholewheat flakes are rich in complex carbohydrates, which digest slowly and help maintain steady blood sugar levels. A serving of this granola contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The healthy fats in this recipe come from sunflower oil, seeds, and nuts. These ingredients contribute monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The total fat content per serving is around 15 grams, with a balance of essential fatty acids.

Proteins

Proteins are well represented in this granola recipe, thanks to the seeds and nuts. These ingredients not only add crunch and flavor but also boost the protein content, making it a more satisfying meal or snack. Each serving provides approximately 7 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This granola is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E from sunflower oil and seeds, magnesium from nuts, and iron from sesame seeds. It also contains calcium, potassium, and several B vitamins, contributing to a well-rounded nutritional profile.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as nuts and sesame seeds. It's also important to note that while oats are naturally gluten-free, they can be contaminated with gluten during processing. Those with allergies or sensitivities should adjust the recipe accordingly or ensure their ingredients are free from cross-contamination.

Summary

Overall, this granola recipe offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a high-fiber, nutrient-dense food that supports a healthy diet and provides sustained energy.

Summary

This American-style Granola recipe is a testament to the enduring popularity and versatility of granola as a nutritious food. With its simple preparation, wholesome ingredients, and customizable nature, it's a fantastic addition to any meal, providing energy, flavor, and health benefits. Whether enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying snack, this granola is sure to delight.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a crisp autumn day, and I was visiting a quaint little bakery in the heart of New York City. The aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air, tempting me to explore the array of treats on display.

As I perused the shelves, my eyes landed on a jar of American-style Granola. The golden clusters of oats, nuts, and dried fruits beckoned to me, promising a deliciously crunchy and wholesome breakfast. Intrigued, I asked the baker for the recipe behind this delectable creation.

With a warm smile, the baker shared with me the secrets to making the perfect batch of American-style Granola. She explained that it was a recipe passed down through generations in her family, a beloved staple at their breakfast table. I could sense the pride and joy in her voice as she recounted the memories of making this granola with her grandmother in the cozy kitchen of their family home.

Eager to learn the art of making this beloved recipe, I asked the baker if she would be willing to teach me. To my delight, she graciously agreed and invited me to join her in the bakery kitchen the following day.

As I stood in the bustling bakery kitchen, surrounded by the clatter of pots and pans, the baker patiently guided me through the process of making American-style Granola. She explained that the key to a perfect batch lies in the balance of ingredients – a mix of rolled oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a touch of sweetness from honey and brown sugar.

I watched in awe as she expertly combined the ingredients, tossing them together with a gentle hand to ensure even distribution. The scent of toasting oats and nuts filled the air, creating a warm and comforting atmosphere in the kitchen.

As the granola baked in the oven, I listened intently as the baker shared stories of her family and the traditions they held dear. She spoke of lazy Sunday mornings spent around the breakfast table, sharing stories and laughter over bowls of homemade granola.

After the granola had cooled and crisped to perfection, the baker scooped generous portions into jars for me to take home. She handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe, its pages worn and stained with years of love and use.

I left the bakery that day with a heart full of gratitude and a newfound appreciation for the art of cooking. The recipe for American-style Granola had not only taught me how to make a delicious breakfast treat, but it had also connected me to a rich tradition of family and heritage.

Since that day, I have made countless batches of American-style Granola in my own kitchen, each one a tribute to the baker who so generously shared her recipe with me. And as I enjoy a bowl of granola on a lazy Sunday morning, I am reminded of the warmth and love that went into every batch, a legacy passed down through the generations.

Categories

| American Recipes | American Vegetarian | Granola Recipes | Honey Recipes | Nut Recipes | Rolled Oats Recipes | Sesame Seed Recipes | Sunflower Seed Recipes |

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