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Treat yourself to a real break

By Genevieve O’Gleman, nutritionist, savourer.ca

When I go out on a hike, I often grab a chewy bar, some fruit or a handful of nuts or dried fruit.  Basic, simple, quick! Other times, I take the time to prepare a more elaborate snack, but rest assured, still very simple!

 My favourite snack to indulge in (and I’ll admit, to impress my friends with) is a chai latte accompanied with caramelized nuts. It’s filling, comforting and energizing. Perfect for fall hikes as the temperature drops. 

I prepare the nuts the night before. I love using pecans as they become soft and chewy once they’ve come out of the oven.  Dipped in maple syrup, spiced with cardamom, ginger and cinnamon, they are totally addictive!

I prepare the nuts the night before. I love using pecans as they become soft and chewy once they’ve come out of the oven.  Dipped in maple syrup, spiced with cardamom, ginger and cinnamon, they are totally addictive!

 And the highlight of my break is the tea that I prepare right on the trails! It’s not a tea prepared at home and then poured into a thermos.... No, it’s a tea prepared entirely in the great outdoors! With the right equipment, it’s so easy and there’s absolutely no reason not to try it. I have a collapsible kettle which, when folded, is about the size of a CD. And my canister stove fits in the palm of my hand! These items are light as a feather and I hardly know I’m carrying them in my backpack. I fill an insulated flask with milk and a bit of maple syrup or honey to pour into my chai tea. 

A nice hot tea and candied nuts enjoyed while taking in breathtaking scenery has a wonderful effect, don’t you think? Why not take up the challenge? I bet you’ll find yourself thinking twice before grabbing a store-bought granola bar before you head out on a hike!

You can find the chai latte recipe here  and spicy candied pecans here.