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Pecans

Add this Southern tradition to your cooking

Best to buy
Pecans are available year-round, but are used in many fall and winter desserts and savory side dishes.

Cut & clean
Pecans can be bought shelled or unshelled. Shelled pecans can be used straight out of the package.

Sweet holiday goodness
To caramelize, heat 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of butter on medium heat, add 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of brown sugar, and 1 cup (99 grams) of whole or halved pecans, and stir constantly until sugar is dissolved and the nuts are lightly browned. (Take care not to burn them!) Create a festive salad by adding them to the greens of your choice with goat cheese and sliced pears.


Preparation, uses, and tips

Shelled pecans can be used straight out of the package. Chopped pecans are used in baking and are especially popular in the American South where they are used to make a traditional pecan pie, a popular dessert. They are also used in savory dishes, such as stuffing, and are added to a number of other foods, such as ice cream and cookies. Pecans are often spiced and served whole as a snack.

Buying and storing tips

Pecans are available year-round. Look for pecans in the shell that do not rattle when shaken, that feel heavy for their size, and that have no cracks in the shell. Since shelled pecans turn rancid quickly, it is best to buy them in the shell for maximum freshness. Once shelled, pecans should be refrigerated or frozen in an airtight container, where they will keep for six months to a year.

Varieties

There are over 300 varieties of pecans. Most varieties are a little over one inch in length and consist of two lobes, similar to the walnut but more delicate in flavor.

Nutrition Highlights

Pecans, 20 halves (1 oz.)
Calories: 196
Protein: 2.6g
Carbohydrate: 3.9g
Total Fat: 20.4g
Fiber: 2.7g
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