Food52
For more than 15 years, I worked as a species at risk biologist on ranches and farms across the Canadian Prairies. The farmers and ranchers I worked with were dedicated conservationists, and many would have done more for the wildlife and habitat on their lands had they not be constrained by the vagaries of consumer markets. I had grown up in the city, and travelling between these worlds forced me to wake-up to the significance of my role as a consumer in supporting the stewardship efforts of our food producers. But the issues are complex, and we as consumers are constantly bombarded by confusing and conflicting headlines regarding what to eat and why. As a result, I switched gears, and tried new ways of reaching consumers – one of which was to start up a small food company. Through this company, I produced an artisan line of granola with a focus on sourcing ingredients from sustainable growers, and providing food consumers with evidence-based solutions toward achieving balance between environment, economy, and community. The line of granolas included 4 flavours: FAIRLY DECADENT (recipe below): Highlighting “Fairtrade” certified products, with ingredients featured ensure a fair price for the small-scale organic producers that grow them. GROUP OF SEVEN; A celebration of Canadian food producers, with ingredients sourced from North of the 49th and including B.C. miso, smoked sea salt, and dried fruits; local cream and honey; Prairie-harvested grains, wild rice and seeds; Ontario hazelnuts, and Quebec maple syrup. WASTE NAUGHT: The heart of Waste Naught granola was in quality ingredients that would otherwise go to waste. Grapeseed oil – a byproduct of wine production – and “spent grains” from local craft breweries. LOCAL ROOTS: Sweet, and cardamom-spiced, this carrot granola was made with ingredients sourced from farms as close to home as possible. Here, I am sharing the recipe for the ‘Fairly Decadent’ granola as it is both the most accessible geographically in terms of sourcing ingredients, and the easiest/ least time consuming to prepare. I didn’t think I would want chocolate for breakfast, but this changed my mind! Hope you enjoy!
