Craving a crunchy and nutritious treat? Try making your own raw granola with sprouted buckwheat and dried fruits! This homemade snack combines the nutty goodness of buckwheat, the natural sweetness of dried fruits, and a variety of nuts and seeds. You'll love the satisfying crunch and flavor-packed experience. First, soak the buckwheat to soften and aid digestion. Then, mix it with the dried fruits and sweeteners, and dehydrate for a delightfully crunchy texture. Customize it with your favorite nuts and spices for a personalized granola blend. Enjoy this wholesome granola as a breakfast, snack, or topping – it's sure to become a household favorite. And if you keep reading, you'll discover even more about this tasty and nutritious treat.
Key Takeaways
- Raw granola combines sprouted buckwheat, dried fruits, and spices for a crunchy, flavor-packed, and nutritious breakfast or snack.
- The dehydration process preserves the natural flavors, nutrients, and enzymes of the ingredients, making it a healthier option.
- Granola can be customized by swapping nuts, adding seeds, and experimenting with different dried fruits to suit individual preferences.
- Homemade raw granola offers freshness and control over the ingredients compared to store-bought options.
- The preparation time is worth the effort, as raw granola provides a satisfying and nutritious snack experience.
History
Granola has been a popular snack for centuries, enjoyed by various cultures around the world. From ancient Greek and Roman civilizations to Native American tribes, people have long recognized the benefits of this crunchy, nutrient-dense treat. In fact, the word "granola" is derived from the Spanish word "granula," which refers to small granules of food.
In addition to being a delicious snack, granola can also be enhanced with health benefits when paired with beverages like kombucha, which is rich in probiotics and supports gut health. The combination of granola and natural detoxifying properties found in kombucha can create a nutritious and satisfying meal or snack.
Over the centuries, the recipes and preparation methods for granola have evolved, but the core ingredients – oats, nuts, and dried fruits – have remained relatively consistent.
Today, granola is enjoyed as a breakfast cereal, a snack, and even as a topping for yogurt and ice cream. Its versatility and health benefits have made it a staple in many households.
Whether you're a longtime granola enthusiast or new to this delicious and wholesome snack, the history of this beloved food is sure to inspire and delight.
Recipe
Raw Granola Recipe
Granola is a beloved breakfast staple, known for its crunchy texture and wholesome ingredients. This raw granola recipe offers a delightful twist, as the granola isn't baked but rather gently combined to preserve the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients. Incorporating nutrient-dense seeds like chia can enhance the granola's nutritional profile, providing additional fiber and omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for heart health and digestion benefits of chia seeds.
The beauty of raw granola lies in its simplicity and versatility. Unlike traditional granola, which is typically baked at high temperatures, this recipe allows the ingredients to maintain their raw state, ensuring that the vitamins, minerals, and enzymes remain intact. The result is a granola that's both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup raw almonds, chopped
- 1/2 cup raw pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup raw cashews, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup raw honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, pecans, cashews, and shredded coconut. Drizzle the melted coconut oil and honey or maple syrup over the mixture, and sprinkle with cinnamon and sea salt. Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Tips:
For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating other raw nuts, seeds, or dried fruit into the granola. The key is to keep the mixture at a raw, uncooked state to preserve the maximum nutritional benefits.
Store the raw granola in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, and enjoy it as a wholesome breakfast, snack, or topping for your favorite yogurt or smoothie.
Cooking Steps
Soak the buckwheat overnight to soften it up.
This process is similar to how educational toys, such as STEM toys, stimulate cognitive growth in young children by encouraging exploration and problem-solving.
Then, drain and rinse the buckwheat so it's nice and clean.
Next, combine the buckwheat, your favorite dried fruits, and a touch of sweetener.
Step 1. Soak Buckwheat Overnight
Typically, you'll want to soak the buckwheat overnight. This helps to soften the grains and make them easier to digest. Simply place the buckwheat in a bowl, cover it with water, and let it sit for 8 to 12 hours. During this time, the buckwheat will absorb the water, plump up, and become more tender.
Once the soaking time is up, you'll need to drain and rinse the buckwheat. This removes any impurities or excess water. You can do this by pouring the buckwheat through a fine-mesh strainer or colander. Give it a good rinse under cool running water until the water runs clear.
Now your buckwheat is ready to be used in the raw granola recipe. The soaking process has helped activate the enzymes and nutrients in the grains, making them more nutritious and easier for your body to absorb.
Get excited – you're one step closer to enjoying a delicious, homemade raw granola!
Step 2. Drain and Rinse Buckwheat
After the buckwheat has soaked for 8 to 12 hours, you'll need to drain and rinse it. This step is crucial to remove any excess water and prepare the buckwheat for the next stage of the recipe.
First, place a fine-mesh strainer in the sink and carefully pour the soaked buckwheat into it. The small, triangular-shaped grains will be sitting in the strainer, ready for a good rinse.
Turn on the tap and let cool water run over the buckwheat, gently stirring it with your fingers to ensure all the grains are thoroughly rinsed.
Once the water runs clear, you'll know the buckwheat is clean and ready to go. Give the strainer a few shakes to remove any remaining droplets, then transfer the rinsed buckwheat to a bowl or baking sheet.
The damp buckwheat is now primed and prepped for the next step in creating your homemade raw granola. Get ready to add some delicious flavors!
Step 3. Combine Buckwheat, Fruits, and Sweetener
With the buckwheat rinsed and ready, it's time to start building your raw granola.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed buckwheat with a variety of dried fruits. You can use chopped apricots, raisins, cranberries, or any other dried fruit that you enjoy.
Next, add a sweetener of your choice, such as maple syrup, honey, or dates. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adding more if needed. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different fruit and sweetener combinations!
Once everything is mixed together, spread the granola mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You'll want to ensure the granola is in a single layer so it can bake evenly.
Now, pop it in the dehydrator or oven set to a low temperature, and let the granola slowly dry and become deliciously crunchy. Keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally, until it reaches your desired texture.
Step 4. Dehydrate Granola Mixture at 115°F
To dehydrate the granola mixture, you'll want to set your dehydrator to 115°F. This low temperature is perfect for preserving all the wonderful nutrients and flavors in the buckwheat, fruits, and sweetener.
It might take around 12 to 18 hours for the granola to fully dry out, but don't worry – your kitchen will smell amazing the whole time!
Once the dehydrator is set, simply spread the granola mixture out in a thin, even layer on the dehydrator trays. This allows the air to circulate all around the granola, drying it evenly.
You can gently stir the granola a few times during the dehydrating process to ensure everything dries uniformly. Keep a close eye on it, and once the granola is crisp and golden brown, it's ready to enjoy!
Store the finished raw granola in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Sprinkle it on top of yogurt, add it to trail mixes, or snack on it by the handful – the possibilities are endless!
Step 5. Spread Evenly on Dehydrator Trays
Once the dehydrator is set to the ideal temperature, you'll want to spread the granola mixture out in a thin, even layer on the dehydrator trays. This helps ensure the granola dries evenly, creating a crunchy, golden-brown texture throughout.
Use your hands or a spoon to gently spread the mixture, taking care not to pack it down too tightly. You want the granola to have some breathing room so the hot air can circulate and do its job.
As you're spreading the granola, keep an eye out for any large clumps. If you spot any, use your fingers to gently break them apart. This will help the granola dry more efficiently.
Once the trays are filled, slide them into the dehydrator, making sure they're level and not overlapping. Then, set the timer and let the magic happen! In a few hours, you'll have a batch of delicious, homemade raw granola ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This raw granola recipe has provided a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that you can easily prepare at home. You'll be pleased with how simple and straightforward the process is, from gathering the ingredients to assembling the granola on the dehydrator trays.
The end result is a crunchy, flavor-packed treat that's perfect for enjoying on its own or topping yogurt, smoothie bowls, and more.
While the preparation may take a bit of time, it's well worth the effort. The combination of sprouted buckwheat, dried fruits, and aromatic spices creates a truly unique and satisfying granola experience.
Plus, you can customize the recipe to suit your personal taste preferences, swapping in your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried berries.
Whether you're looking for a nutritious breakfast or a healthy snack, this raw granola is sure to become a new household favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Raw Granola Healthier Than Baked Granola?
Generally, raw granola is considered healthier than baked granola as the nutrients and enzymes in the ingredients are better preserved in their raw state. However, the difference in health benefits may be minimal for most consumers.
Can I Use Other Types of Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of nuts you prefer in this recipe. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, or even a mix of different nuts would all work well and add their own unique flavors and textures.
How Long Does Homemade Raw Granola Last?
Homemade raw granola typically lasts 1-2 weeks when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. The exact shelf life depends on the ingredients used and how well you've preserved it.
Do I Need a Dehydrator to Make This Recipe?
You don't necessarily need a dehydrator to make homemade raw granola. You can use your oven on the lowest setting or even air-dry the ingredients if you have the time and patience.
Can I Substitute Maple Syrup for the Honey?
Yes, you can substitute maple syrup for the honey. Maple syrup has a similar sweetness and consistency, so it'll work well as a replacement. Just be mindful of the flavor difference as maple has a distinct taste.
Related Posts:
Rachael, the Editor in Chief of RachaelsRawFood.com, is an inspiring and passionate individual who has dedicated her life to promoting the benefits of a raw food lifestyle. Known for her vibrant and energetic personality, Rachael has built a strong online presence that has transformed her personal journey into a thriving community of raw food enthusiasts.
