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Granola Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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granola

[ɡrəˈnoʊlə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

healthy breakfast option

Granola is a breakfast food and snack food consisting of rolled oats, nuts, honey or other sweeteners, and sometimes puffed rice, that is usually baked until it is crisp, toasted and golden brown.

Synonyms

breakfast cereal, muesli, oat clusters.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
granola

Typically used to describe a mixture of oats, nuts, honey, and sometimes dried fruit, which is often baked until crisp. It's often used as a topping or eaten with yogurt or milk.

  • She sprinkled granola on top of her yogurt for a crunchy texture.
  • I enjoy having granola with a bit of honey in the morning.
muesli

Usually refers to a mix of raw rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. It is typically not baked like granola and is often soaked in milk or yogurt before eating.

  • For a healthier option, she opted for muesli with fresh berries.
  • He prepares his muesli the night before by soaking it in milk.
oat clusters

This term is often used to describe small chunks or clusters of oats that are usually baked together with sweeteners and oils, similar to granola but in cluster form. They provide a crunchier texture.

  • She likes to snack on oat clusters during her afternoon break.
  • Oat clusters add a nice crunch to my morning bowl of yogurt.
breakfast cereal

A general term for a variety of breakfast foods made from processed grains, commonly eaten with milk. It is often the term used in supermarkets and advertising.

  • He poured himself a bowl of breakfast cereal before heading to work.
  • Parents often buy breakfast cereal in bulk for their kids.

Examples of usage

  • I love having granola with yogurt in the morning.
  • She packed some granola bars for her hiking trip.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary History

  • Originally created in the late 19th century, granola was part of a health movement that emphasized wholesome, natural foods.
  • The first commercial granola was called 'Granula,' invented by a doctor named James Caleb Jackson in 1863.
  • Granola became popular during the 1960s as part of the health food trend and the rise of vegetarianism in the United States.

Nutrition

  • Rich in fiber, granola can aid in digestion and contribute to heart health due to its whole grain content.
  • It can be high in sugar and calories, so portion control is important for those watching their intake.
  • Adding fruits or yogurt can enhance the nutritional value, turning it into a balanced meal.

Pop Culture

  • Granola bars, a convenient snack version, became widely available in the 1970s and are loved by many for their portability.
  • The term 'granola' has been associated with a certain lifestyle, often linked to health-conscious and eco-friendly movements.
  • Celebrities and influencers often promote granola as a trendy health food on social media.

Global Variations

  • Similar to granola, muesli is a raw mix of oats and nuts popular in Europe, often eaten soaked in milk or yogurt.
  • In some cultures, variations of granola are enjoyed, featuring local ingredients like seeds, dried fruits, or spices specific to their regions.
  • In India, 'chivda' can be considered a savory granola, made with lightly fried flattened rice, nuts, and spices.

Environmental Impact

  • Many granola brands focus on sustainable sourcing of ingredients, particularly oats and nuts, to minimize environmental impact.
  • The packaging for granola products has also evolved, with a push towards biodegradable and recyclable options.
  • Homemade granola helps reduce plastic waste associated with store-bought versions, promoting a zero-waste lifestyle.

Origin of 'granola'

The word 'granola' originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It was coined by Dr. James Caleb Jackson, a strict vegetarian who was looking for a healthy and nutritious food option. He created the first granola by baking graham flour dough into brittle cakes, which he then crumbled and baked again. The name 'granola' was trademarked in 1886 by John Harvey Kellogg, who further popularized the breakfast food. Granola has since become a staple in many households as a healthy and convenient option for breakfast and snacks.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,704 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.