The Pecan: An American Original

The pecan belongs to the hickory family and is the only major tree nut that grows naturally in North America. The word "pecan" is of Algonquin origin, describing "all nuts requiring a stone to crack." Wild pecans were readily available to Native Americans -- they reportedly first cultivated the pecan tree in the 16th century -- and widely used as a major food source. They even made a fermented intoxicating drink called "powcohicora," from which the word hickory is derived.

Today, pecan trees grow in more-temperate climates, such as Georgia, Oklahoma and Texas, and as far north as Virginia. Shelled pecans, whether chopped, halved, ground or in pieces, are available year-round. Unshelled pecans also are available all year, but their peak season is in autumn. Their smooth, tan shells are hard but thin, so they're easily cracked. A good unshelled nut has no blemishes, and when shaken they shouldn't rattle.

Pecans contain more fat than many nuts, which lends to their buttery, rich consistency. However, 50% to 80% of the fat is monounsaturated, or "good" fat, which can help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol. In fact, packaged pecans can now carry an FDA-approved, qualified health claim touting their heart-health benefits. They also are high in calcium, vitamin E, potassium, fiber, folic acid and magnesium.

Storing pecans is simple yet important. Their high fat content makes pecans susceptible to rancidity. Unshelled nuts should be stored in a dry place for up to 6 months. Shelled nuts can be stored either refrigerated in an airtight container for about 3 months or in the freezer for 6 months.

Pecans have a wide range of uses. Most popular are desserts, such as cookies, pies, tarts and cakes, as well as ice cream. Food professionals also explore more atypical uses, adding them to savory center-of-the-plate and side-dish applications. They impart a rich mouthfeel, and add texture to meats, including poultry, pork and game, as well as fish. Toasting the pecans before use brings out more of their rich flavor.

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