The raw food diet has many staples that are popular wherever you find raw foods. Raw granola is definitely one of those staples. Made from raw buckwheat groats (not the toasted version known as kasha) and an array of flavor possibilities, this basic raw food granola recipe can be altered into countless versions. If you can't find (or don't care for) goji berries, feel free to substitute cranberries, raisins, dried cherries or your favorite dried fruit. Nuts also make a great addition. Try soaking some walnuts or almonds and adding them into the mix at the end of step 2.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Dehydrate Time: 24 hours
Total Time: 24 hours, 30 minutes
Yield: 6 cups
Ingredients:
- 2 cups raw buckwheat groats, soaked at least 1 hour
- 1 cup medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup goji berries
Preparation:
1. While the buckwheat groats are soaking, soak the dates in the orange juice as well. This will soften them up a bit. Drain the buckwheat groats, rinse them well and allow them to drain again. Transfer them to a bowl.
2. In a food processor, blend the dates, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and vanilla on high speed until a soupy paste forms, about 20 seconds. Pour this mixture over the buckwheat and mix well.
3. Spread the batter evenly between two Teflex-lined dehydrator trays. Dehydrate at 115°F for about 12 hours (or until they are dry enough to flip over), flip them over and remove the Teflex sheet. Continue dehydrating another 12 to 15 hours, or until the granola is dry and crunchy. Remove from the dehydrator and use your hands to crumble the sheets into a mixing bowl.
4. Add the goji berries and mix well. Store in an airtight glass container either at a cool room temperature, or in the refrigerator.