Nana’s Granola for a Crowd

Granola is one of those conventional breakfasts that can be extremely high in sugar. This is where Nana’s granola come’s to the rescue!

Years ago, I started making homemade granola for my kids. It became so popular and in demand at the cottage that Nana took on the job for all the grandchildren (and children!). As we have changed our diet to reduce excess gluten and sugar, Nana has made some adjustments to what she includes in her recipe, without sacrificing the deliciousness. And while she varies ingredients from time to time, the granola always disappears quickly when there is family here! This year’s version including turmeric is below.

Some of the health benefits of this granola recipe include:

Oats are a good source of important minerals such as manganese, magnesium, chromium and zinc. They are also a good source of protein and fiber. Studies on the health benefits of adding oat bran or oatmeal into the diet have focused on improvements in cholesterol levels and stabilizing blood sugar that supports weight loss.

Coconut oil had suffered a bad reputation for increasing cholesterol levels due to it being primarily a saturated fat. However, scientific articles indicate that saturated fat is not necessarily the main issue in increasing risk of heart disease. And, coconut oil in particular has demonstrated a beneficial effect on lipid levels and waist circumference.

Turmeric. I have written all about turmeric and how to use it here. This post provides lots of information and recipes so that you can get turmeric’s anti-inflammatory benefits on a regular basis. Remember, for adequate absorption, you must consume it with either black pepper or a healthy fat (such as the coconut oil used in this recipe).

You don’t need to have a crowd to make this recipe either as this granola stores well in an airtight container.

Nana’s Granola for a Crowd

The only really important ingredients are oats and oil which makes the oats crisp up in the oven. The Quaker Large Flake Oats bag is easy as it contains 12 cups, or you can make this certified gluten free using gluten free oats. We use either coconut oil or high heat approved (Chosen Foods) avocado oil. You can vary this recipe by changing up the spices or adding dried fruit, and by adding other chopped nuts or seeds such as hemp seeds. Also, as the level of sweetness is personal you can adjust the maple syrup amount or use honey instead. As you start to eat less sugar, your taste buds will start to like less sweet foods!

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Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 22

Ingredients

12 cups large Flake Oats
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 cup slivered almonds
3/4 cup avocado or coconut oil
1/3 cup maple syrup or honey, adjust to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Combine all dry ingredients in a shallow oven proof pan with sides.
Add oil and maple syrup or honey and combine well.
Place in preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, then reduce temperature to 275 degrees and bake another 45-60 minutes until done.
Store in airtight container.