Two of the kids’ aunts both sent us home-made granola for Christmas a few years ago. Both versions were really good (how diplomatic) and opened our eyes to a better – and cheaper – way to do breakfast. Since then, we’ve settled in on the recipe here as our favorite. All natural ingredients available inexpensively in bulk from our local warehouse grocery, no added sugar or fat, and great taste. As always in Dad’s economy, this recipe is easy to modify. Please experiment or share your own favorite granola ideas.

In a big bowl, combine thoroughly:

• 5 cups “Old Fashioned” rolled oats
• 1 cup each walnuts, pecans, almonds coarsely chopped
• 1 cup flaked coconut (unsweetened, if you can find it)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 good pinches Kosher salt

In a microwaveable measuring cup or bowl, combine and microwave to warm:

• ½ cup honey (If you like your honey…oh, you  know what I mean…then try darker honey than you usually buy. Get it at a farmer’s market or health foods place. The darker the color, the richer and more mysterious, the flavor. What was it exactly that those bees were eating?)
• ½ cup real maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla

Pour over dry ingredients and mix to an even color with a big fork or spoon. Place in a 350 degree oven for 25-30 minutes, lightly stirring after 15 minutes.

Remove from oven, top with 1 Cup or so of dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, blueberries, etc.). Let cool to room temp before storing.

Enjoy with nonfat yogurt (My fav is a nonfat, French vanilla variety.), and frozen or fresh fruit. Moisten with milk and garnish with honey.

Mmmmmmm!  And good for ‘ya, too.