Citrus Peel Granola
A vibrant, zero-waste breakfast featuring dried citrus peels that would typically be discarded. These aromatic peels add bright flavor and nutritional benefits to a crunchy homemade granola base, perfect for reducing food waste while enhancing your morning routine.
Ingredients
- 4 organic citrus peels (orange, lemon, lime, or grapefruit), washed
- 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or cherries)
Instructions
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1
Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2
Using a vegetable peeler, remove the colored part of the 4 washed organic citrus peels (orange, lemon, lime, or grapefruit) (avoid the white pith, which is bitter). Cut the peels into thin strips.
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3
If you have time, dry the citrus peels: spread them on a plate and leave them at room temperature for 1-2 days until dry and slightly crisp. Alternatively, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and dry in a 200°F (95°C) oven for 25-30 minutes, then cool completely.
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4
Once dry, finely chop the citrus peels. You should have about 2 tablespoons of dried, chopped peels.
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5
In a large bowl, combine the 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup roughly chopped raw almonds, 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds, 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes, 1/4 cup ground flaxseed, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp salt, and dried citrus peels.
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6
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 1/3 cup melted coconut oil, and 2 tsp vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
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7
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
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8
Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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9
Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the granola is golden brown and fragrant.
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10
Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet without stirring (this allows clusters to form).
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11
Once cooled, mix in the 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or cherries).
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12
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.