Holiday cooking conjures up thoughts of brown sugar, chocolate and pecans. The pecan is a mainstay of holiday treats and is versatile in cooking, baking and, of course, snacking.
Pecans for Snacking
Everyone has an opinion as to the pronunciation of their favorite nut. Southerners say “pee-cans” while northerners say “pe-kahns.” However you say it, the pecan is versatile and a good source of fiber, B vitamins, iron and protein. The pecan makes a great snack, weighing in at 195 calories for about 20 halves.
Pecans in Desserts
Pecans have a buttery flavor, and are particularly good in desserts. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without pecan pie, and pecans are the star in praline candy. They can be used fresh in salads and snacks.
Pecans in Grocery Stores
In the grocery store, look for wholesale pecans for sale that are golden brown in color and have no splits or holes in the shell. In-shell nuts are the most affordable. Be sure they feel heavy, as lightweight nuts may be small or dried up in the shell. One pound of pecans in the shell is the equivalent of a little over two cups of nuts.
Buying shelled nuts will save a lot of time and energy in the kitchen. Broken halves are the least expensive, and are great for cooking or baking when you would use chopped nuts, while the intact halves are more attractive for topping dishes or for garnish.
What to Do with Leftover Pecans
If you have leftover pecans, simply seal them in a container and put them in the refrigerator or freezer. Shelled nuts will stay fresh for nine months, and unshelled pecans can be frozen for two years. You can always have delicious pecans on hand for that last minute dessert or a delicious sweet potato casserole.
Next time you shop, pick up some bulk pecans, and keep them on hand for your family’s dining pleasure.