GRANOLA
Adapted sightly from Alton Brown
Makes about 6 cups

3 cups rolled oats
1 cup almonds, slivered or chopped
3/4 cup shredded sweet coconut 
1/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoons dark brown sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup pure maple syrup 
3/4 teaspoons salt
1 cup raisins (optional)


Preheat oven to 250 degrees F.

In a large bowl, combine the oats, nuts, coconut, and brown sugar.

In a separate bowl, combine maple syrup, oil, and salt. Combine both mixtures and pour onto 2 sheet pans. Cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to achieve an even color.
Remove from oven and transfer into a large bowl. 

Add raisins (if using) and mix until evenly distributed.