Eat Healthy= Be Healthy, Happy, and Active
As the saying goes: “If you want a job done right you have to do it yourself.” This is becoming more and more apparent with the foods we eat. The amount of processed and artificial products taking the place of natural foods is overwhelming. Many mass produced foods easily at hand bring with them a whole list of side effects that can affect not only health in the long term but energy and mood in the short term. Though many natural food producers are becoming more available and popular again, it can still be difficult to find items specific to the diet you want to maintain especially if allergies are a concern. One sure way to know exactly what is in your food and to ensure it matches your specifications is to just make it yourself.
As backcountry athletes we don’t like being held back from doing the things we love, especially when it can be avoided. We need proper fuel to go the distance, climb higher, and enjoy all that the outdoors has to offer.
Making our own food is thought to be time consuming, but is well worth it, there is a sense of pride, satisfaction, and reassurance that comes with knowing we are taking care of ourselves and safeguarding our ability to be healthy, happy, and active. Whether you’ve been in the kitchen for years whipping up your own unique delicacies or completely new to the practice, this quick and easy granola recipe is sure to satisfy and is easily customizable to accommodate your own taste.
Metric Conversion: A single Cup equals 250 milliliters.
3 ½ Cups of Oats
1/3 Cup of Sugar (or substitute)
1/3 Cup of Brown Sugar (or substitute)
1/4 Cup of Flour (or gluten free substitute)
3/4 Cup of Butter (regular or dairy free)
1/4 Teaspoon of Salt
1/4 Teaspoon of Vanilla Extract
Work together with hands in a bowl and press into a:
9”x 13” or 8”x 8” (or 22 x 33 and 20 x 20 centimeters) cooking pan
Bake 20-30 Minutes at 325 Degrees (about 163 Celsius)
Let cool and cut into bars or crumble
Of course this is just a base and can be enjoyed the way it is or nuts, dried berries, and seeds can be added to the mix for a kick of flavor and energy to help you go the distance, climb higher and explore further. Enjoy this granola wherever you are, pack it along on a road trip and on the trail!
