๐ฅฃ Almond Date Oatmeal Granola ๐ฐ๐ฏ
Almond Date Oatmeal Granola is a delightful and nutritious breakfast or snack option that combines the goodness of oats, almonds, and sweet dates. Here’s a detailed response to your questions, complete with emojis! ๐
๐ History:
Granola, in general, has an interesting history. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the 19th century. Sylvester Graham, a Presbyterian minister, is often associated with the development of graham crackers and the concept of granola as part of a healthful diet. However, modern granola recipes have evolved to include a wide range of ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners.
๐ฅ Components:
- Oats: Rolled oats are the primary ingredient in granola, providing a hearty and fiber-rich base.
- Almonds: Almonds add a delightful crunch and healthy fats to your granola.
- Dates: Dates are used to sweeten the granola naturally. They also provide a chewy texture and a hint of caramel-like flavor.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: These are often used as sweeteners to bind the granola together and add a touch of sweetness.
- Oil: A small amount of oil (typically a healthy option like coconut or olive oil) helps in crisping up the granola.
- Spices: Common spices include cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Optional Add-Ins: You can also add extras like dried fruits (e.g., raisins or cranberries), seeds (e.g., chia or flax seeds), or even chocolate chips for variety.
๐ฉโ๐ณ Steps to Prepare:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325ยฐF (160ยฐC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of chopped almonds, and a pinch of salt.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix 1/3 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Combine and Add Dates: Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is well coated. Then, fold in 1 cup of chopped dates.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the granola is golden brown, stirring once or twice to ensure even cooking.
- Cool: Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. It will become crisp as it cools.
- Break into Clusters: Once cooled, break the granola into clusters or chunks of your desired size.
- Add Extras: If you like, you can mix in dried fruits, seeds, or chocolate chips at this stage.
โฐ Time Needed:
The total time required to prepare Almond Date Oatmeal Granola is approximately 35-40 minutes, including both preparation and baking time. It’s a relatively quick and easy recipe that yields a delicious and customizable breakfast or snack option.
Enjoy your homemade Almond Date Oatmeal Granola! ๐ฝ๏ธโจ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Almond Date Oatmeal Granola:
Nutrition Facts (per 1/2 cup serving):
- Calories: Approximately 250-280 kcal
- Total Fat: 12-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Sodium: 20-30 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 4-5 grams
- Sugars: 10-12 grams
- Protein: 6-8 grams
Health Information:
- Fiber: This granola is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness, preventing overeating.
- Healthy Fats: Almonds and the small amount of oil used provide healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Protein: The oats and almonds in this granola contribute to its protein content, making it a decent source of plant-based protein.
- Low Sodium: The sodium content is relatively low, which is important for those watching their sodium intake.
- Natural Sweetener: Dates and honey (or maple syrup) are used as natural sweeteners, avoiding excessive refined sugars.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This granola provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and iron from almonds, and various B vitamins from oats.
It’s important to note that the specific nutritional values may vary based on the exact ingredients and proportions used in your homemade granola. However, in general, this type of granola offers a nutritious and balanced combination of carbohydrates, healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Enjoy it as a part of a balanced diet!
