By Kerry Coughlin, Nutrition Masters Candidate
Have you tried the Sargent Choice granola? If you dine on campus, you’ve probably grown to love it. It’s crunchy and sweet, and the perfect topping for a bowl of yogurt and fruit. Oh, and it’s also packed with whole grains and healthy fats, which are key components in a balanced diet. And that is what Sargent Choice is all about!
But you don’t have to hit the dining hall to get this granola; you can make the Sargent Choice granola in your own kitchen. It’s easy, and takes just a few minutes of effort. Once it’s in the oven, you can get back to studying, and enjoy the wonderful aroma that will fill your kitchen. When it’s done, you can share it with friends, or keep it all for yourself.
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 1 cup of granola, which is 4 servings:
½ c. rolled old fashioned oats
1 ½ tsp. whole wheat flour
2 Tbsp. sunflower seeds
½ tsp. ground cinnamon
¼ c. pancake syrup
1 Tbsp. honey
1 ½ Tbsp. olive oil
½ tsp. vanilla extract
3 Tbsp. water
1 Tbsp. raisins
1 Tbsp. dried cranberries
You might have a few of these things in your pantry already. For the rest, check the bulk bins at Whole Foods, or take a look at Trader Joe’s, and you will probably find a deal. All of these ingredients are a good investment, and it’s much less expensive than buying packaged granola.
To make the granola, preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. Grease a cookie sheet with olive oil.
In large bowl mix together oats, whole wheat flour, sunflower seeds and cinnamon.
In separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, vanilla and water to blend well.
Pour liquid ingredients over dry, and mix until evenly blended. Allow to soak for 5 minutes.
Spread and pat down lightly on the greased cookie sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes until toasted to promote clumps. Let cool completely.
Toss in raisins and dried cranberries.
Here is the final product. Be sure to store it in a covered container.
I hope you get a chance to try making this granola, either in your off-campus kitchen, or while you are visiting your family and friends. You can share the best of Sargent Choice!!
Have you ever tried Sargent Choice Granola? It’s definitely one of our most popular recipes!
