maybe because i'm slightly obsessed with granola bars, and other kinds of bars, but i've noticed such an increase of them over the past decade. as i kid i remember seeing kudos bars, quaker oatmeal bars, nature's valley bars, etc. as i got older there i saw protein bars, energy bars, fiber bars, bars for specific people, like toddlers and people over the age of 55. there are weight loss bars, and bars that replace meals. one thing they all have in common are a laundry list of ingredients and additives. a few years ago i was reading a raw food cookbook where the author mentioned that the shorter the list of ingredients the better. since then i have become more aware at the grocery store or prepared food stores and counters, of how many things are being added into what i am eating. it doesn't exactly govern everything i put in my mouth, but it is definitely a good thing to keep in mind.
which is what brings me to these bars. i guess i would say they're a take on a kind bar. these actually have a shorter list of ingredients and are just as good! these blueberry nut + seed bars are a basic recipe, one that can definitely accomodate any fruit or ingredient of your liking. play around, add what you like, and enjoy.
blueberry nut + seed bars
| makes about 12 bars
1/2 cup raw almonds
1/4 cup raw pecans
1/4 cup raw walnuts
1/2 sunflower seeds
1/3 cup dried blueberries
1/4 cup raw agave nectar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
a pinch of cardamom
few pinches of fine grain sea salt
| directions
pre heat oven to 325°
line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment or tin foil. lightly coat the parchment with coconut oil ( you can also use olive oil)
combine the nuts in a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped (don't over chop, you dont want too many tiny pieces)
in large bowl, mix the chopped nuts dd the agave nectar and mix until the nuts are coated. add the blueberries, spices, and salt. mix until combined
pour mixture out into he lined pan. using the back of a spatula, press the mixture down into the corners and sides of pan. make sure that it's even
place in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes rotating halfway through
let the bars cool. they will not completely harden until they are thoroughly cooled. enjoy