Muesli is a cross between hot and cold cereal. Traditionally, the oats are soaked overnight in yogurt or kefir (a runnier version of yogurt). In the morning grated or thinly sliced fresh fruit is added to the soft cereal. The classic Swiss version does not contain protein powder.
4 (4-block) meals
Ingredients:
1 cup plus 2 1/2 tablespoons old-fashioned thick rolled oats
12 almonds coarsely chopped
12 pecan halves coarsely chopped
12 walnut halves coarsely chopped
4 macadamia nuts, coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons raisins
3 sulfite-free whole dried apricots or 6 dried apricot halves, minced
1 teaspoon apple pie spice or ground cinnamon
Four 1-ounce scoops vanilla whey protein (about 1 cup)
2 cups plain, low-fat kefir or yogurt, preferably organic
1 small apple, cored and grated
1 small pear, cored and grated or 2/3 of a ripe banana, sliced
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon stevia extract powder or 3 to 6 drops stevia extract liquid (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the oats and nut pieces until lightly golden and aromatic, stirring all the while, 3 to 5 minutes. In a medium bowl, toss the oats, nuts, raisins, apricots, spice and protein powder.
2. Before going to bed, add the kefir or yogurt to the oat mixture. Stir, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
3. In the morning prepare the apple and pear or banana. Stir into the muesli and let stand for 15 minutes. If desired, add a little water. If you prefer a sweeter taste, stir in stevia. Divide among 4 cereal bowls and serve.