Granola

Granola should be composed of about 5-6 cups grains, including at least 3 cups oatmeal; 1-2 cups seed products like flax meal, sesame or shredded coconut; and about 1 cup of liquids and oil combined; honey or syrup, about 1/3 cup oil, vanilla, fresh coconut milk, fruit juice, even water. Add a pinch of salt. Nuts and dried fruit should be added after baking. Sugar can be used in place of liquid sweetening if necessary- use 1/2 to 3/4 cup sugar and an equal amount of water. Add more water if chunky granola is desired.
Here is an example:
4 cups oatmeal

3 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup flax seed meal or sesame seeds
1 cup coconut flakes (grated raw, as in the picture; or dried)
2/3 cup maple syrup or honey
1/3 cup vegetable oil
pinch of salt

Combine ingredients well. The picture (right) shows a double batch of mixed granola, with cashews (which are inexpensive here). I like it chunky; if you want even bigger chunks, add a little more water. Don't be afraid to use your hands! :) Bake on 1 large or 2 medium baking pans for one hour at 275. After mixture is cooled add:
1 cup whole raw almonds or cashews

1 cup dried cranberries, dates or raisins

Store in an airtight container. It's ready to eat... yum!! I like it with yogurt or milk, and some fresh fruit.