Granola

10 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup ground flax seeds
1/2 lb shredded coconut
2 cups raw sunflower seeds
1 cup sesame seeds
3 cups chopped almonds, pecans or walnuts
1-1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
1-1/2 cups water
3/4 cups vegetable oil
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup molasses
1-1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
Raisins or other dried fruits, if desired


Preheat oven to 300F. IN a large bowl combine oats, wheat germ, flax seeds, coconut, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds and nuts. Blend well.
In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, oil honey, molasses, salt, cinnamon and vanilla. Heat until sugar is dissolved, but do not boil. Pour syrup over dry ingredients and stir until well-coated. Spread into five 13"x9" baking pans with sides.
Bake 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally,. Bake 15 Minutes longer for crunchier texture. Cool. Add raisins or other dried fruit, if desired. Put in airtight containers. Store in cool, dry place. Use within 6 months. Yield: about 20 cups.


A good, healthy alternative to granola is muesli. It's got lots of health benefits minus the sugar! :D