What is buckwheat?!

It is actually not considered a grain, but rather a seed, coming from the same family as rhubarb. It is a protein source (18%), of which this protein is 90% bioavailable to humans, which is great news for vegans and vegetarians. It is rich in non-heam iron, zinc and the “fertility mineral” selenium.

Is it “paleo”?!

Hmmmm – the debate continues – I would consider it suitable for those who choose a paleo-style of eating. It is definately considered clean eating though, which is what I choose to follow, rather than Paleo.

This granola recipe came about when I was testing recipes by other people. Most granola recipes call for oil and/or sugar, so I decided to have a go at making a slightly healthier version. Due to the amount of seeds and nuts, it still contains fats – but the healthy ones! The recipe is easy to make and would last for a good 7-10 days in an air tight container….not that it will lsat that long. I usually make this every Sunday and it will be gone by the Thursday!

  • Gluten free
  • Paleo

Ingredients

  • 400g (soaked weight) pumpkin seeds/sunflower seeds & cashews*
  • 350g soaked buckwheat*
  • 1/3 cup runny honey
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ginger

*Cover with water and soak overnight for at least 10 hours

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 200C with fan
  2. Drain and lightly dry the seeds/nuts/buckwheat. Mix together in a large bowl.
  3. Add the honey & spices, mix well.
  4. Line a baking sheet with grease-proof paper & spread the mixture evenly & thinly over it. Place in the oven on a shelf just below the middle.
  5. Cook for 10 minutes then remove & mix well. When you do this, leave the oven door open to allow it to cool & turn it down to 150C. Place the tray back in the oven for 5 minutes.
  6. After the 5 minutes, if you feel it is golden/crispy enough then you can remove, otherwise mix & return to the oven for another 5 minutes.
  7. When cooked, allow the granola to cool on the tray, mixing occasionally to break it up.
  8. Store your amazingly crispy, crunchy granola in an airtight container