Wholesome Morning Granola

Make a batch of this granola on the weekend for breakfast to last you all week. Don't use regular Rice Krispies for the puffed rice cereal, because it contains non-vegan sugar. Try an organic variety such as Barbara's Bakery, which is certified vegan: www.barbarasbakery.com

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups regular oats, 1 cup puffed rice cereal, 1/4 cup flaked coconut (although I'm not sure why coconut wouldn't be vegan, the package from Let's Do Organic carries a certified vegan label), 1/4 cup oat bran, 2 tablespoons sliced almonds, and a tablespoon and a half raw sugar.

In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup apple juice and 1/3 cup pineapple juice - try the juices from Lakewood, such as Pure Apple and Pure Pineapple: www.lakewoodjuices.com Bring to a boil, and cook until reduced to 1/3 of a cup - about 5 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons agave nectar (in place of honey). Slowly pour over the oat mixture, tossing to coat.

Spread the oat mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake in the oven at 325 degrees for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally (be careful especially that the bits on the edges of the pan don't start to burn).

Let cool slightly, then stir in 2 tablespoons dried blueberries. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container. 1/2 a cup serving is 260 calories. On an extra cold morning, serve with warm soy milk!

Cost:
regular oats $2.99
puffed rice cereal $4.79
oat bran $3.99
pineapple juice $5.99
dried blueberries $10.12