DRIED CHERRY GRANOLA
This healthy homemade granola recipe is from Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of LDV Winery in Arizona.
Makes: Approximately 12 cups
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: This episode of the “Wine Time with Peggy” podcast focuses on how Scottsdale, Arizona is becoming a Blue Zone Community. Certified Blue Zones Communities have populations with greater well-being, improved health outcomes, reduced costs, and increased civic pride, all of which support healthy economic development. Watch here in the YouTube player.
Ingredients –
6 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup canola oil
1/2 cup light brown sugar
2 cups sliced almonds (or other seeds and coarsely chopped nuts)
2 cups of sweetened shredded coconut (or to taste)
2 packages dried cherries or other dried fruit or raisins
Wheat germ or a cup of bran (optional)
Cinnamon, maple syrup & at least a half of cup of honey (to taste)
Instructions –
Mix the rolled oats, canola oil, and brown sugar. Add cinnamon, maple syrup, and honey to taste. We don’t like our granola too sweet, but we love cinnamon. So, add the sweetening ingredients and cinnamon to your taste. I also at times add a little vanilla to change up the flavor a bit. If you don’t use maple syrup add more brown sugar.
Mix well and spread onto a cookie sheet. Bake at 300 degrees F until lightly toasted stirring frequently. Mix in the package of sweetened coconut, almonds (or other nuts and seeds) and wheat germ and bran at this point. Bake until golden brown (about 15 minutes) stirring as needed.
When done, remove from oven and add the dried cherries (raisins or other dried fruit) and cool completely. Store the granola in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions –
The granola is terrific with Almond milk which adds another layer of richness. It also makes a great snack. Another favorite of is mixing it with homemade yogurt (or store bought) and fresh blueberries or other fruit.
Wine Pairing Suggestion –
We have our granola for breakfast and for most people it does not necessarily pair well with wine. However, a big and bold fruity LDV Winery Petite Sirah that will bring out the cherry flavors or a terrific Mimosa could be a great accompaniment.
