Turmeric and Black Pepper Granola

This savory nut free granola is studded with warm spices like turmeric, ginger and black pepper. It’s a fun twist on something traditionally sweet! Layer it with yogurt and raspberries for a tasty and satisfying breakfast.

Are we still loving turmeric? Golden milk lattes? How about adding it to baked goods? Yes please!

My latest twist on the tried-and-true flavor combination that is turmeric and ginger is this roasty, toasty, crunchy, beautiful nut free granola. I’m such a big fan of making recipes that are traditionally on the sweeter side, savory. Man did this one deliver.

And granola is just so darn easy to make at home (plus it makes your house smell amazing!).

Here’s what you need to make it:

Ingredients

• Rolled oats (pro tip: Bob’s Red Mill makes “extra thick” oats which work great for granola)
• Quinoa. An unexpected, but awesome addition for the crunchiest texture
• Chia seeds for nutrition and extra bite
• Spices: turmeric, black pepper, ground ginger & cinnamon
• Olive oil to make sure it browns
• Maple syrup, just a touch to balance out the spices without making it too sweet
• Mix-ins: toasted coconut flakes & golden raisins (I think these pair so well, but feel free to omit if you don’t like them – I know raisins are polarizing)

Granola is the best. Every time I make it, I wonder why I ever buy it from the store. Don’t get me wrong, there are some great store-bought varieties. But I find the best ones are also extra pricey. This recipe is certainly a more economical option!

Tips for Making Crunchy Homemade Granola

The low-and-slow method yields the best results for granola so while the cook time is on the longer end for my recipes, it’s mostly hands-off time.

You’ll want to turn the pan and flip the toss the granola about halfway through cook time to prevent burning. Otherwise, totally low maintenance.

To make a nut free granola that’s still delightfully crunchy (the only way granola should ever be), I added a double dose of texture: quinoa and chia seeds. Don’t skip them if at all possible.

How to Serve Granola

My favorite way to eat this is layered over full-fat (plain) yogurt or cottage cheese with some fresh juicy berries. How beautiful is that color contrast? It makes a great light breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up. Creamy, crunchy and fresh all in one bite.

Other suggestions:

• on top oatmeal or chia seed pudding
• mixed in with a fruit crisp topping
• on top of roasted veggies!

It also makes a cute little gift if you jar it and tie a bow around the lid. Who wouldn’t be pumped to receive this?

Moral of the story, if you love granola as much as me and want to try a more non-traditional flavor combination, you just have to give this one a try. It’s the perfect level of sweet and savory.

If you love granola, be sure to try my Crunchy Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola too!

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This post was originally published in June 2021. Content was updated in November 2022.