National Pecan Day

The versatile and delicious pecan

Pecan is a versatile and delicious nut originally from North America; it has a uniquely smooth taste which makes it popular nut to use in many recipes from entrees to desserts.  April 14^th is National Pecan Day, and is the perfect opportunity to try out those new recipes, especially if you feel like trying something new.

Not only is the pecan nut a great addition to many dishes, it also has many health benefits such as:

• High in Antioxidants – Full of Vitamin E and other antioxidants, the pecan can help prevent cancer and heart disease as well as helping your body’s natural defences.
• Lots of Minerals – Pecans contain many vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium and calcium. The right types of vitamins and minerals in your body help organs function etc.
• Good Source of Fibre and Protein – Protein and fibre are vital for muscle growth and digestive health so that your system can properly utilise all food you digest.
• Increases Metabolism – Nuts are a great way of helping you lose weight as they can speed up your metabolic rate and can also make you feel fuller for longer, preventing you from eating unhealthy snacks.

Pecans taste similar to walnuts, and although they can be a little bitter when not fully ripened, these lovely nuts are used in many dishes including the famous pecan pie. Pecans bring out the flavours of many meals which is why they make a great addition to puddings and savoury dishes alike.

The traditional Pecan pie

Used in salads, stuffing, pies, cookies and as garnishes, pecans are amazingly versatile and can be a great source of nutrition too. A traditional Pecan Pie is so simple to make, and is a great way to start your love of pecans this National Pecan Day.

You will need:

• 6 egg yolks
• 1 sweet pie shell
• 1/3 cup golden syrup
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup cream
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 2 ½ cups pecans
• 3 tbsp melted butter

Preheat oven to 180C. Evenly spread pecans across baking tray and roast for 5-10 minutes. Whilst the pecans are roasting, mix the sugar, syrups and yolks together then whisk well. Add the cream and melted butter and then whisk the mixture again. Stir in the roasted pecans and pour the whole mixture into the pie shell. Place in the oven until golden (between 25 and 35 minutes) and allow to cool before serving.

If you want to try a savoury pecan recipe, you will love Pecan crusted Pork Pinwheels, Wild rice and Pecan salad or Candied Pecan bacon. All you need for the bacon recipe is ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup chopped pecans, 1 tbsp plain flour, 1 lb lean sliced bacon. Preheat oven to 350F and mix the pecans, sugar and flour on a plate lightly cover the bacon in the mixture and bake each on a broiler until slightly crisp – a perfect afternoon snack with drinks!

Find more Pecan recipes on Recipebridge.