Day: August 2, 2016

Zero Waste Muesli Bar Recipe

Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make snack that’s both healthy and sustainable? Try this zero waste muesli bar recipe! Packed with oats, dried fruit, seeds, and a touch of sweetness, they are perfect for breakfast on the go, school lunches, or an afternoon pick-me-up. The best part? You can get all your ingredients waste-free from Wasteless Pantry, so you’re doing your part for the planet while enjoying a tasty treat.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (125mL) honey (or use ¼ cup honey and ¼ cup peanut butter for extra flavor)
  • ¼ cup caster sugar
  • 125g butter
  • 3 cups rolled oats or cornflakes (you can mix them or use one)
  • 1 cup Rice Bubbles
  • 1 cup sultanas
  • ½ cup chopped apricots, dates, or choc chips (choose your favorite combination)
  • ½ cup desiccated coconut
  • ¼ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds), sunflower seeds, or sesame seeds

Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Grease and line a slice tray (about 31cm x 22cm) with baking paper.
  2. Prepare the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the honey (or honey/peanut butter), caster sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, for 2-3 minutes until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
  3. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats or cornflakes, Rice Bubbles, sultanas, chopped fruit (or choc chips), desiccated coconut, and seeds. Mix well.
  4. Mix everything together: Pour the hot syrup over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly to ensure everything is well coated.
  5. Prepare to bake: Spoon the mixture into the prepared slice tray and press down firmly with a spatula or your hands (you can wet your fingers with cold water to smooth the surface easily).
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Allow the muesli bars to cool completely, then refrigerate until firm.
  7. Cut into slices: Once chilled, slice the muesli bars into 24 pieces (approximately 2cm x 6cm each) and enjoy!

Benefits of Buying Ingredients from Wasteless Pantry

When you shop at Wasteless Pantry, you’re choosing to reduce waste by refilling your containers with only the amount of ingredients you need. This eliminates the need for single-use packaging, keeping plastic and excess waste out of landfills. Additionally, bulk buying allows you to experiment with different ingredients like dried fruits, seeds, or even chocolate chips without committing to large amounts, making this recipe fully customizable and eco-friendly.

By shopping waste-free, you’re making a positive impact on the environment while enjoying wholesome, homemade snacks. It’s the perfect combination of sustainability and deliciousness!

With these simple steps, you can whip up a batch of tasty zero waste muesli bars that the whole family will love! Enjoy your snacks knowing they’re not only good for you but good for the planet too.


Homemade Cheese Cracker Recipe

Craving a savory, crunchy snack that’s easy to make and environmentally friendly? This homemade cheese cracker recipe is the perfect solution! Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients, they’re ideal for snacking, serving with dips, or adding to a cheeseboard. By sourcing your ingredients from Wasteless Pantry, you’ll not only enjoy delicious crackers but also reduce packaging waste—an eco-friendly win!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups plain flour (any type—wholemeal, spelt, or gluten-free alternatives can work too)
  • 2 tablespoons oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
  • 1 cup sharp cheese, grated (cheddar, parmesan, or your favorite strong cheese)
  • ¾ cup water
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Optional garnish: extra salt, pepper, or your favorite spices (e.g., paprika, rosemary, garlic powder)

Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of plain flour, 2 tablespoons of oil, 1 cup of grated cheese, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add ¾ cup of water while stirring until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly firm but not too sticky.
  3. Roll the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out thinly (about 2-3mm thick) to ensure the crackers come out crispy.
  4. Cut to shape: Use a knife, pizza cutter, or cookie cutters to slice the dough into cracker-sized pieces. You can opt for simple squares, rectangles, or get creative with fun shapes.
  5. Garnish: Sprinkle extra salt or spices on top of the crackers for added flavor. You could try a pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or even rosemary for a gourmet touch.
  6. Bake: Place the cut dough on a lined baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crackers turn golden brown and crispy.
  7. Cool and enjoy: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.

Benefits of Buying Ingredients from Wasteless Pantry

Wasteless Pantry allows you to shop for just the amount of flour, oil, cheese, and spices you need for this recipe—completely waste-free. Bring your own containers and refill with these essentials, helping you eliminate single-use packaging and reduce your environmental footprint. Plus, you can experiment with different types of flours and cheeses without committing to large, pre-packaged amounts, making your homemade crackers as sustainable as they are tasty.

Shopping from Wasteless Pantry not only supports your zero waste journey but also ensures that your snacks are both eco-friendly and delicious. It’s all about making sustainable choices that are better for the planet while still enjoying the foods you love.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal waste, these homemade cheese crackers are a perfect addition to your zero waste lifestyle. Enjoy them guilt-free, knowing you’ve made a tasty snack without contributing to landfill waste!