1 cup sunflower seeds (hulls removed)
1/2 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup almonds (slivered or chopped)
3 cups rolled oats
1/4 cup flour
1/2 cup brown sugar or apple juice concentrate, mixed with 1/2 cup water
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla
3 to 4 tablespoons natural maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup dried fruit, such as raisins, apricot pieces, cherries, or cranberries
1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2) In a skillet containing no oil or liquid, combine the seeds and nuts. Heat over a low flame, stirring frequently, just until you start smelling a toasty warm aroma. (Keep watching and don't let them burn.) You can also toast them for 2 minutes in a pan in a toaster oven set on a low setting.
3) In a large bowl, combine the toasted seeds and nuts with the remaining ingredients, except dried fruit. Spread the mixture onto 2 cookie sheets and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden, turning the mixture frequently with a spatula or a wooden spoon while baking. Remove from oven and leave granola on pan while cooling. Add dried fruit to granola and stir to combine. Store in an airtight container.