In a nod to a more wholesome, nutritious new year, we present the ultimate breakfast for starting the day as you mean to go on, with the power to stave off morning munchies. Stir and leave to soak before you go to bed and wake up happy.
BIRCHER MUESLI
2 apples, such as Granny Smith, peeled and cored
300ml coconut water (or use apple juice or milk)
300ml plain Greek yogurt (3.5% fat or more)
250g rolled oats, kamut, or spelt
85g dried goji berries
3 tbsp flaxseed
2 tbsp coarsely chopped fresh mint leaves
3 tbsp maple syrup
To garnish:
Fresh berries, mint leaves, granola, Cape gooseberries and chopped nuts
1. Using a box grater set over a large bowl, coarsely grate the apples. Add the coconut water, 60ml of the yogurt, the oats, goji berries, flaxseed, and mint to the bowl and stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Cover the muesli and refrigerate overnight.
3. The next morning, mix the remaining 240ml yogurt, maple syrup and a pinch of salt into the muesli and spoon into bowls. Garnish as desired before serving.
Notes:
Makes about 900g. The muesli can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you’re using coconut water, it’s better to use a yogurt with a fairly high fat percentage.
RECIPE ADAPTED FROM BREAD EXCHANGE BY MALIN ELMLID (CHRONICLE BOOKS, £21.99).
Want more breakfast ideas?
It's easy to get into a rut when it comes to breakfast, particularly during dark winter mornings. But a warming meal first thing will set you up for the rest of the day. Try these three breakfasts for size, or head over to our Rise and Shine Pinterest board for more ideas.
Quinoa porridge with apples and spice
Image: The Teacup Chronicles
Using quinoa instead of porridge oats results in a lighter, more nutritious porridge, while the spices are warming and the apples add natural sweetness.
Shakshuka
Image: The Natural Cook by Tom Hunt
After something savoury? Shakshuka - a traditional Middle Eastern dish - features eggs, tomatoes, and a peppy blend of spices. Guaranteed to get the blood pumping and keep you full until lunchtime.
Brioche French toast
Image: Sunday Suppers
Not everyone is dieting and detoxing this month, and this recipe for brioche French toast is almost bread and butter pudding-esque. Indulgent and delicious - perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Words: Lottie Storey
Bircher muesli recipe from page 128 of January's The Simple Things - buy, download or subscribe now.