Recipe: Chai Pistachio Granola

I can't get enough of this granola. Swati was inspired to create a batch after we both discovered an upstate New York bakery, Bread Alone, that makes a highly addictive granola by the same name.

I am beginning to think my wife has a future career in food science. She did an amazing job at re-creating this product, even going a step further with the addition of Indian chai spice (a blend of ground cardamom, ginger, cloves, cinnamon). Now you must try it!

Makes about 12-15 servings

3 cups rolled oats
1 cup raw pistachios, shelled
1/2 cup raw almonds, chopped
1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
1 cup dried coconut
5/8 cup maple syrup
1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp Indian chai spice (or ground cardamom)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
3/4 cup dried apricots, chopped

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Combine oats, nuts, seeds, coconut, maple syrup, olive oil, brown sugar, salt and spices. Spread mixture on a rimmed baking sheet in an even layer and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes until golden brown and well toasted. Remove from oven.

Transfer granola to a large bowl and add apricots, tossing to combine.

What I'm craving: Raw Granola

Ever since returning from San Francisco last week, I've found myself addicted to the Raisin Cinnamon Buckwheat Crunchies Raw Granola from Kaia Foods.

I've had it with yogurt, strawberries, peaches, and apricots. You can also eat it straight out of the bag.

I've been looking for an alternative to my usual steel cut oats for some time, and think I may have found it. Especially as the weather gets warmer, my body starts to crave lighter breakfasts like this one.

I am by no means a raw foodist, but this product is delicious. Perhaps even addictive. I love that it is made from buckwheat, a whole grain I would like to eat more of. It is also sweetened by agave nectar.

Do you have a favorite granola? I'd love to hear about it.