Most store-bought or even homemade granola contain more sugar and oil. Try this one with omega-3 and protein-packed hemp seeds for a healthier and nut-less version:
What you’ll need to make about 3 cups:
2 cups whole rolled oats
1/2 cup hulled hemp seeds
1/2 cup raw pepitas or sunflower seeds
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons virgin coconut oil
1/8 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Option: After baking, can add 1 cup unsweetened dried (chopped) or dehydrated fruit (this fairly new choice is simply fruit without extra oil or sugar, which seems to be the way of most dried fruit these days).
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment or foil.
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients. Use your hands to mix and coat well. If the coconut oil is more solid, the warmth of your hands will melt it; just make sure there aren’t any remaining bits left.
Spread the mixture in a thin layer on the prepared baking sheet, and bake for approximately 10 minutes, stirring halfway through the baking time. The mixture should be lightly toasted. Remove from the oven, and allow to cool before serving or storing. Add dried fruit at this time, if using.
Keep in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 2 weeks. For travel, package in 1 cup amounts in small plastic bags for easy single-serve eating. Can be nibbled, used as cereal or added to yogurt for a complete meal.
Thoughts and variations:
Get creative! Change out the seeds and dried fruit, if using, to create your own version. You can exchange maple syrup for the honey and almond extract for the vanilla. And of course, if you don’t want it nut-less, add 1 cup of raw chopped nuts in the mixture prior to baking.