π₯£ Almond Raisin Granola π°π
Almond Raisin Granola is a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option that combines the crunchiness of oats and almonds with the natural sweetness of raisins. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with yogurt, milk, or as a topping for smoothie bowls.
π History:
Granola as a concept dates back to the 19th century, but modern granola, like Almond Raisin Granola, gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s as a health food. It was originally created as a way to provide a nutritious and energy-packed meal for outdoors enthusiasts and has since become a staple in many households.
π¦ Components:
- Oats: Rolled oats are the base ingredient, providing a hearty and fibrous texture.
- Almonds: Almonds add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats to the mix.
- Raisins: Raisins contribute natural sweetness and chewiness.
- Sweetener: Often, honey or maple syrup is used to sweeten and bind the granola.
- Oil: A small amount of oil (such as coconut or vegetable oil) is used for even toasting.
- Flavorings: Cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt enhance the flavor.
π©βπ³ Preparation:
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Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (160Β°C).
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Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of sliced almonds, and a pinch of salt.
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Create Wet Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup with 1/4 cup of oil and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
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Combine and Coat:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until the oats and almonds are evenly coated.
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Baking:
- Spread the mixture onto a lined baking sheet in an even layer.
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Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the granola turns golden brown.
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Add Raisins:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, mix in 1 cup of raisins or your preferred dried fruits.
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Cool Completely:
- Allow the granola to cool completely to achieve maximum crunchiness.
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Store:
- Once cooled, transfer the granola to an airtight container. It can be stored for several weeks.
β²οΈ Time Needed:
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Baking: 20-25 minutes
- Cooling: Varies but usually about 30 minutes
π½οΈ Enjoy your homemade Almond Raisin Granola as a delightful and wholesome addition to your breakfast or snacks! ππ₯
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Almond Raisin Granola:
Nutrition Facts (per 1/2 cup serving):
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1 gram
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 10 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 33 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugars: 12 grams
- Protein: 5 grams
Health Information:
- High in Fiber: This granola contains 4 grams of dietary fiber per serving, which helps support digestive health and can contribute to a feeling of fullness.
- Healthy Fats: The almonds and small amount of oil provide healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Moderate Calories: With 220 calories per serving, it can be a reasonable part of a balanced breakfast or snack when portion-controlled.
- Natural Sweetness: Raisins provide natural sweetness without the need for excessive added sugars.
- Nutrient Variety: Almonds contribute essential nutrients such as vitamin E, magnesium, and protein, enhancing the nutritional profile.
- Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, making it possible to create a granola with more or less sweetness, added fruits, or other healthful additions like flaxseeds or chia seeds.
Remember that the actual nutritional content may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used, so it’s always a good idea to check packaging labels if you have specific dietary concerns or goals. Enjoy your Almond Raisin Granola in moderation as part of a balanced diet! π₯£π°π
