Although I have mentioned it on the blog before, I don’t tend to talk about the fact that I have some stomach problems, all the time. But what I can (and can’t) eat of course really effects what recipes I post here on the blog.

If you like me, can’t eat very much dietary fibre, then I hope you can find some good recipes on here. But I do sometimes struggle to eat healthily because most healthy foods are off limits for me. And buying granola is a mine field. There is at least one thing (sometimes several) that I need to pick out before I pour it onto my yoghurt, so it is a lot easier making my own.

Oats, although high in fibre, consists mainly of soluble fibre, which even I can handle some of, so they’re a great base. And so good for you! I toast them until I have crunchy golden delicious-smelling clusters, then add the almond slivers to be gently toasted and then the raisins afterwards.

In general I can’t eat very many nuts, but peeled and sliced almond slivers (or ground almonds) work in moderation, so that’s why I added those. Same with dried fruits; in general I can’t handle it, but a few raisins work. Prunes or apricots on the other hand are a no-no. (Yes, my condition is A LOT about trial and error).

I will say though, that this granola is for everyone! I have given it to neighbours and friends and they all love it. What I really like about it (apart from the fact that I don’t have to pick anything out!) is that it’s not overly sweet, but still delicious. (Just imagine how much sugar that they use in store-bought granolas that taste really sweet! Scary!) But my favourite part – apart from the taste – is the way your whole house smells heavenly as you make it. It would be perfect in a scented candle!

Hanna’s granola with almonds and raisins, 1 large batch

500 g rolled oats

100 g almond slivers

150 g raisins

125 ml caster sugar

125 ml water

50 ml vegetable oil

1 tsp vanilla

2 tbsp honey

a pinch of salt

Preheat the oven to 150C. Cover a baking tray with raised edges with parchment paper. Mix water, sugar, oil, honey, vanilla and salt in a small bowl until the sugar has melted. Pour the oats onto the baking tray and pour in the sugar mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until all the oats are a little damp from the syrup. Spread out evenly and toast until golden, for approx 20-30 minutes.

Stir and toast for another 10-15 minutes. Add the almond slivers and toast for another 5 minutes. Take the tray out of the oven and leave to cool. Add the raisins and leave to cool completely before transferring the granola to an airtight container. Keeps for a month (but might not last as long).