Tomorrow is National Pecan Day in America, and I was amused to find that there is an entire website dedicate to pecans, from which you can order pecans, find recipes, buy gifts (like cookbooks dedicated to pecan or virgin pecan oil), and, to top things off… even get all your questions answered by dialing 1.800.4.PECANS!
Not surprisingly, pecan-mania is most dominant in America because the pecan is actually a species of hickory tree native to south-central North America. In fact, the wood of the pecan tree is also used in making furniture, hardwood flooring, and for flavouring fuel for smoking meats. But it is the nuts (also called pecans) from this plant that are most popular in the culinary world.
Pecans have a rich, buttery flavour and can be eaten fresh or used in cooking, particularly in sweet desserts, the most common and popular of which is the heavenly Pecan Pie. This is a traditional southern US recipe often mentioned in American literature, a dessert associated with Thanksgiving, Christmas and other special occasions. Pecans are also a major ingredient in praline candy, most often connected to New Orleans. Not only are they tasty, but a good source of protein and unsaturated fats, and can also reduce high cholesterol.
Pecans are available in many forms; you’ll find them vacuum-packed in jars, sealed in plastic bags, or packed in cans. For the freshest and tastiest pecans, choose whole ones in the shell – these can be stored for about three months at room temperature. Shelled pecans, on the other hand, are best refrigerated, and also freeze well in a moisture-proof plastic bag.
Pecans may be most popular in desserts but they also make a great addition to salads, stuffings, chicken or fish coating. For starters, Asian Duck Salad with Pecans is a real treat or, for something a little lighter, simple drizzle Apple Pecan dressing over your regular greens or roasted vegetables. For an entr?e your stomach won’t forget, try Oven-Fried Pecan Chicken or Pecan Crusted Trout. Indulge in Stuffed Pork Chops with Prunes and Pecans and mouth-watering Mushroom Pecan Rice. Pecans are also delicious whole and toasted, or – my personal favourite – covered with chocolate! For something a little hot, enjoy a Spiced Pecan Snack Recipe – spiced pecans with egg white and sugar coating along with cinnamon – an easy snack for party or holiday gatherings. Whatever you do, remember: April is National Pecan month, so why not celebrate with some scrumptious Apple Pecan Pancakes!
www.ilovepecans.org, www.pecans.com
