Why is granola picture perfect?
Granola could be an example under the word ‘perfect' in the dictionary. It is sweet, crunchy, versatile, tasty and healthy. It is the best of both worlds which is why it makes for the perfect aesthetic breakfast option. Granola is a mixture made from rolled oats, nuts, berries and includes sweeteners like honey or even brown sugar, although you can find granola with no added sugar.
You can easily pair it with some yogurt, ice cream, fruits, and nuts. Regardless of dietary restrictions, granola can be consumed in numerous ways- without dairy and eggs as well. Either way, granola is the Cinderella of all the sisters and here is why it makes for the perfect breakfast option.
If you like to have the ebay of both worlds (health and taste)- granola is for you. It is healthy, and can give you some indulgence alongside. A granola is a gentle reminder that healthy need not be tasteless.
Health Benefits
The health benefits of granola are many. It is ideal for people who are in the process of a dietary transformation, trying to lose weight, dealing with hyperlipidemia or just generally wish to live a healthy lifestyle. It not only helps aid weight loss but also reduces cholesterol (LDL - Low Density Lipoprotein) that can also be termed as the ‘bad-guy of cholesterol’.
It maintains blood pressure, gut health, reduces blood sugar levels while also preventing your body from life threatening diseases such as cancer. What else do you need? If you are on that slight transition mode, from a diet not so focused on health aspects, to one that is mindful of nutrients, calories and whole grains; and do not want your flavor buds to suffer, then you should go for the granola.
One product, endless uses: Make of it what you will - literally
Granola is like clay- You can mold it, twist it, mix it up and make it however you want it to be. Here are some granola ideas to support that statement
1. For Breakfast: Granola is known to be a very breakfast-y option. You can choose to have it in a smoothie form if you are a work-out freak. You just need to blend your preferred fruits and add in some crunchy granola to make your smoothie feel more like a meal and less like a drink. You could also go the old-school way of consuming it with any milk or yoghurt of your choice.
2. For Lunch: If you are on a healthy routine, you can add granola to your salads. Choose your favourite veggies, tomatoes, lettuce, spinach etc. Top it with some nuts and seeds like sunflower, sesame or pumpkin seeds. And finally top it off with some nice crunchy granola to give it that extra crunchiness.
3. For a Snack: A classic granola bar: Choose your favourite granola flavour- chocolate, coconut, you name it. Add some dried fruits and nuts, honey as a sweetener if you like and finally, some peanut butter to make it come together. You got yourself a homemade granola bar.
4. For Dinner: To include granola into more heavier meals, you can always substitute it. For instance, if you are making a cutlet, instead of breadcrumbs you can switch it up with grinding granola into finer consistency and use that to coat your patties.
5. For a Dessert: A granola yogurt parfait- Layer some yogurt alternatively with granola and top it up with your favourite fruits, nuts, seeds and berries. Freeze it overnight and Tada! You got yourself a mouthwatering dessert.
6. For a quick munch: Do you find yourself in moments where you crave something crunchy, but do not want to eat anything too sweet, or too oily? Again, granola is the answer! Choose the right granola that goes with your diet and nutrition choices and enjoy munching, guilt-free!
Say hola to granola and make it a part of your day-to-day diet. Be creative with it and experiment all you want. It is the best way to find new things and meals that will appeal to you. You can personalise granola to your likings, and eventually without too much thought, you will already start living a more healthier lifestyle. That's the granola charm.
If you are extra health conscious and worry about preservatives, chemicals or artificial binding agents in products- Look for Indian brands that are transparent and true to their ingredients and processes, then you can stock up your store with clean, healthy and tasty granola among other products.
(The author is lead, new product development at True Elements)