Good-as-Gold Granola

16 c rolled oats
3 c unsweetened coconut
3 c wheat germ
3 c nuts and seeds (sunflower, sesame, walnuts, almonds - mixed, or whatever is on hand)
1 and 1/3 c vegetable oil
2 c honey
1/2 c water
1 tbsp salt
3 tsp vanilla
3 c raisins

Stir vanilla and salt into wet ingredients and pour over dry ingredients (except raisins) in a large bowl. Mix well and spread onto two cookie sheets or large pans (cake pans, roasters have high sides and are thus less messy) and bake at 300F for 40 to 60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes or more often if you smell burning. When oats are lightly browned, remove granola from oven and cool before adding raisins. Store in airtight container.

This cereal is very filling and chewy, but if you’re going to be a vegetarian you need a handy and nutritious staple like this in your kitchen. Preferably one with lots of protein – so don’t skimp on the nuts.

In my household there are three adults eating this granola regularly and this recipe lasts us about three weeks. If you live alone or are trying homemade granola for the first time, think about halving the measured amounts given. The granola can be kept in the freezer, too.