pecans

Pecans are loved for their spicy aroma and subtly sweet, buttery flavour that reminds many of caramel. They look similar to walnuts, but have a milder and sweeter flavour. These nuts grow on large trees that can reach up to 50 metres tall and are encased in a hard, smooth shell. However, you can usually find them already shelled in stores.

Why eat pecans?

Pecans are especially popular for their healthy fat content. They contain monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), such as linoleic acid, which is an omega-6 fatty acid. They also help boost your intake of fibre, copper, magnesium, and other beneficial nutrients. Plus, they add a unique aroma, flavour, and crunch to your diet.

How to use pecans? 

You can enjoy pecans on their own as a healthy snack, or incorporate them into various recipes. They are a great addition to yoghurts, porridge, homemade muesli, or granola. They are also an essential part of popular desserts like the pecan plait with maple syrup. A favourite in American cuisine is then the traditional caramel pecan pie. Pecans work well in other sweet recipes too, such as brownies, muffins, Bundt cakes, cookies, or banana bread. Moreover, roasting them in a pan or oven enhances their flavour and crunchiness, making them a perfect addition to salads, a crispy crust for fish, or various stuffings.

You can also grind pecans into a naturally gluten-free flour, ideal for baking and pastries, as it will enrich them with a unique taste and aroma. Blending them creates a delicious nut butter, which you can spread on toast or add to porridge.