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Apples, nuts, seeds, coconut, and milk.

The memory is fresh.

Close to five years of life circumstance comes to an end. In that time, grief devours my appetite. At a table in Alaska, I watch my family enjoy their breakfast. A bowl of oat-like mush sits to my upper left.

Intrigued, I ask “What’s that Roger?”

“It’s Muesli” he replies.

Still blank but lucky to be opposite my encyclopedia uncle, he explains.

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Dr. Maximilian Oskar Birchar-Benner was entrenched with the idea and benefit of raw foods on the human body.

His perfect culmination of raw apples, nuts, lemon juice, and condensed milk proves true.

Dr. Bircher-Benner’s intent for muesli was as a starter for meals but never for breakfast.

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At a time food lost its place, muesli wakens my senses. One tiny bowl leads to another. Enchanted by this oat mix, I bolt to the kitchen our first morning home. Soon, a taste of my own version. Teeny bowls become small, and eventually, small became normal.

Years later, I read about and make a connection:

Swiss physician Maximilian Oskar Birchar-Benner works to combat the ill effects of tuberculosis through improved diet. I didn’t have tuberculosis, in thinking about how those bowls of muesli nursed me to health, still get goosebumps.

How do you like your muesli?

I’ve run the gauntlet on variations, but always return to the one made the morning home from Alaska.

 

Move over Wheaties.

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 – 1 Tablespoon chia seeds

1 small apple (shredded and one slice chopped)

1 – 2 Tablespoons raisins

1/2 – 1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground clove

1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract

1.5 cups unsweetened almond milk

Sprinkle of unsweetened shredded coconut

Sprinkle of chopped pecans

Couple blueberries

 

It’s so easy.

Place ingredients into a bowl, mix, then refrigerate.

Stir and sample every once in awhile.

If needed, add more milk and spice.

 

Muesli for when?

I’m in agreement with the great doctor, enjoy day and night,

but eat for breakfast too.

 

Options, because we love options.

Oats and grains

I sometimes like 50/50 rolled and quick oats.

Scottish, Irish, spelt or rye can be used too, but have found more liquid and soaking is needed.

Nuts and Seeds

walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and sunflower seeds are super good too!

Fruit

muesli says any of your favorite fresh or dried fruit works perfect!

Milk and Yogurt

dairy, non-dairy milks, and if you prefer, a scoop of yogurt to thicken the consistency.

Juices

 want lemon or apple juice? Of course. Up to half lemon or maybe 1/4 cup apple juice.

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Dear Muesli –

I will never get over you.

Heart,

me