Preheat oven to 275 degrees F.

Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper and reserve.

Combine brown sugar and water in a 4-cup microwave proof glass measuring cup or bowl.

Place in microwave on high for 5 minutes and cook until sugar is completely dissolved.

Remove from microwave, add vanilla extract and salt.

In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, nuts, and brown ef="http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/sugar-syrup/index.html" class="crosslink" debug="381 392">sugar syrup mixture.

Stir until thoroughly mixed.

Spread the granola onto cookie sheets and bake 45 minutes to 1 hour or until golden and crunchy.

When the mixture comes out of the oven, it is still very pliable.

You may choose to add in dried fruit as a finishing touch at this time.

When granola has cooled completely, store in an airtight container.