Muesli

I have always loved muesli, but the commercially made stuff, even the stuff in bins in the natural foods section or whole foods store can be prohibitively expensive.  Muesli, for me, is a wholesome convenience food.  The night before I eat it, I just put it in a bowl, add frozen berries, cover it with almond milk or coconut milk, seal the bowl with foil, and let it soak overnight; then eat the next morning.  After experimenting with several combinations, I finally worked out a balance of fruit nuts and grain that works for me.  Experiment with the ingredients until you get the flavor and texture that best suits you.

Muesli with fruit

6 cups “old-fashioned” rolled oats

1 cup rolled oats, blended for about 30 seconds

1/2 cup wheat germ (omit, if you are gluten-intolerant)

1/2 cup ground flaxseed

2/3 cups chopped dates (avoid dates with sugar added)

1/2 cup raisins (golden or regular), dried cranberries, or dried cherries

2/3 cup chopped dried apricots

2/3 cup chop walnuts or slivered almonds

1/2 cup fresh or frozen berries (optional) to be added the night before you eat the muesli

Mix all ingredients, except berries, together thoroughly.  Store in air tight container.

The night before: Put about 2/3 cups of the muesli in a bowl, add 1/2 cup frozen or fresh blueberries or other berries (optional), cover with your choice of milks (soy, coconut, almond or regular).  Then cover the bowl with foil or a plate and put in refrigerator overnight.

The next morning: add honey, if you like a sweeter cereal and add more milk if necessary.  Enjoy.

Hot alternative:  Put muesli, milk and berry mixture in the microwave for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes just before you eat it.