CHRISTMAS NUT AND SEED MIX

A friend of mine gave me a simplified version of this recipe as a gift and I couldn't get enough! If you plan on traveling in the upcoming couple of weeks this is a must-pack car or airplane snack to keep you from succumbing to those vending monsters and cheap food [not so] thrills. The protein and subtle sweet will combat the sugar cravings that somehow mercilessly start the minute you buckle in and a handful will fill any and all rumbling tummies.

May your holiday travels be filled with ease and peace. May families and friends be waiting to welcome you with warm hugs and crackling fires. May you let the joy of this season permeate your soul and radiate out into the world. And may you take a moment [or a lot of moments] to remember the reason we are so blessed by our Christmas celebrations.

[THE RECIPE]

2 c. pumpkin [pepita] seeds
1 c. hazelnuts or almonds, very slightly chopped
3/4 c. sunflower seeds
1/3 c. sesame seeds
1/4 c. flaxseeds
1/4 tsp. ground cardamom
1/2 tsp. Real Salt sea salt
1/2 c. maple syrup

1 c. dried cherries or cranberries

In a glass or stainless steel mixing bowl combine all of the dry ingredients [except for the dried fruit]. Stir well. Add the maple syrup and mix until well coated.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the mixture out on the baking sheet so that it is evenly covered with no holes or gaps.

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Bake at 300 degrees for 20 minutes or until just lightly golden brown [watch carefully if you go over 20 minutes]. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Gently break pieces off or crumble, add the dried fruit, and store in a tightly sealed glass jar. If you plan to store the mix for more than 2 to 3 days, keep it in the refrigerator to prevent rancidity prior to traveling.