Open up all of the packages and empty them into a large bowl. Make
sure your hands and clean and mix it all together. Serve in handfuls
to hungry growing children. This is my family's favorite version and
it's also the least expensive. I leave a bowl of it on the kitchen
table between meals and the kids help themselves to a handful as they
walk by. It's a super way to fill up those hungry nooks and crannies
that growing kids always seem to have. Plus I don't mind them filling
up on it because it's relatively healthy.
Easy Variations
Use any type of nut in place of the peanuts. Salted peanuts are
prefered by some, but we like unsalted the best. Use at least 12
ounces of nuts. For a really fancy mixture try mixed nuts. Almonds
are a favorite at our house and when I can get them at the dollar
store, they are a nice indulgence.
I usually use raisins just because they're cheap and I keep them on
hand. My local dollar store has begun carrying bags of dried bananas
and dry pineapple bits as well as a dry tropical fruit blend. These
are more expensive than plain raisins, but for holidays, or when we
have the extra cash, they are popular variations. To cut costs try
using half raisins and half of another fruit of your choice. Remember
to try chopped apricots too.
Finally consider adding a chunky cold cereal such as Toastie-O's,
Rice or Corn Checks or Puffed Rice.
And above
all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall
cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another
without grudging. As every man hath received the gift, even so
minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold
grace of God.--1 Peter 4:8-10
