Granola

 From my Insight Timer Live on 7/7. I love making small batches of granola. Each new batch I like to change the types of seeds or use nuts, add dried fruits or flowers. 

Makes 5 cups

3 cups (255g) oats 

1 cup (30g)  puffed rice

½ cup (65g) pumpkin seeds

½ cup (65g) sunflower seeds

2 tablespoons (20g) sesame seeds 

1/3 cup (80ml) water 

1/3 cup (80ml) honey 

2 tablespoons  (25g)brown sugar 

2 tablespoons (30ml) butter or oil

1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract 

½ teaspoon (1g)ground cardamom 

½ teaspoon (1g)ground nutmeg

Heat the oven to 300F. 

1. Mix the oats, puffed rice and seeds in a bowl and set aside. 

2. In a small pot, combine butter, water, honey, brown sugar,  vanilla, cardamom, and nutmeg  over medium heat, cook until melted.

3. Remove from the heat, pour over oat mixture, and stir until the honey mixture is evenly coated.

4. Spread onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 

5. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the oats are golden and the seeds are browned. 
   

Chia Seed Pudding

Chia seeds become more gelatinous as they absorb liquid, which contributes to the pudding's creamy texture. If you find it too slimy after chilling overnight, simply stir in a bit more milk before serving to adjust the consistency and next time, chill the pudding for less time. The type of milk you use can affect the flavor and thickness of the pudding. Almond milk tends to be thinner, while oat milk and coconut milk create a creamier pudding.

Serves 4

1/4 cup chia seeds

1 cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, coconut, or your favorite)

1-2 teaspoons sweetener of your choice (maple syrup, agave, honey, or date syrup)

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

In a jar or bowl, combine all ingredients.

Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed and not clumping.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. For a thicker pudding, chill for 2-4 hours or overnight.

Before serving, give the pudding another good stir.

Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Fruit Variations:

Berry Bliss: Add a handful of fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries) to the pudding before or after chilling.

Tropical Delight: Stir in diced mango, pineapple, or kiwi for a refreshing twist.

Peachy Keen: Mix in sliced or pureed peaches for a summery treat.

Apple Pie Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a drizzle of apple sauce or diced apples.