Ingredients
8 cups of old fashion oats
3-4½ cups of chopped nuts. (Nancy actually uses 2 cups each of almonds, pecans and walnuts and ¼ cup of unsalted sunflower seeds)
1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar
1/2 cup water
4 tsp vanilla
1 tsp salt
Diced fruit (optional) - i.e. raisins, blueberries, cranberries

Method

Chop nuts.
Mix chopped nuts and oats together in a large bowl.
In a separate small bowl, mix together brown sugar and water and microwave (high) for 5 minutes.
Add vanilla and salt to liquid mixture and stir until salt is dissolved.
Pour over oats and nuts in a large bowl; mix well.
Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper; divide granola mixture between them.
Bake at 275° for 45-60 minutes; cook completely.
Let granola air cool for 30 minutes then break into pieces and store in air tight containers.
When ready to serve optional dried fruit may be added; also excellent with vanilla yogurt.