RAW GRANOLA BARS

In part of trying to always reduce my waste I try and come up with ways to cook in bulk. It seems everything these days comes in some sort of packaging or plastic. So as part of my meal planning for the week I decided to get ahead and make a big batch of home-made granola bars. That way I can take as I go and put in my own re-usable container.

Really though, these bars are irresistible and keep for a long time. I swear just one batch had me nourished for a few weeks, and i even gave plenty away! They must be kept refrigerated because of their "rawness" to keep their texture firm. Eat them whole or crumble on top of any yogurt or oatmeal.

My favorite part about these bars is their filled with lots of omega's and good fats that help feed our brain to function well and antioxidants that are cancer fighting. Loaded with 3 different types of nuts(feel free to switch up if you desire) and flax seed. Almonds are loaded with calcium and fiber. Flax seed also helps reduce your risk of heart disease and diabetes because of the large a mounts of anti-oxidants and omega-3s. As well the chia seeds in this blend also double the benefits in these bars because they are also loaded with protein, fiber, calcium and anti-oxidants. Not to forget what binds all these things together, the honey! Honey is one of natures most ancient remedies. This amazing natural resource has a variety of benefits (to many to list). Just to mention a few: honey has anti fungal and microbial properties that help fight bad bacteria. So it's good for boosting immunity, fighting bacteria and healing wounds.

Basically these are the best treats ever, and keeping them raw means your getting the most nourishment you can out of these bars. So here we are:

RAW GRANOLA BARS

$10-12 oz nut butter (I prefer almond butter)

Ingredients:

2 C GF rolled oats

$10-12 oz nut butter (I prefer almond butter)

$1 C golden flax seed

2 C sliced almonds

1/4 C chia seeds

$1 C golden flax seed

$1 3 / $4 C pecans

1 1/2 C dried cranberries

1/2 C macadamia nuts chopped

$1 3 / $4 C pecans

2 C local honey

2 Tbsp Vanilla

Mix all ingredients together, depending on consistency of nut butter you may want to add more. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Press or flatten out with spatula and pop those babies in the fridge! Enjoy!