Native

Interesting Native Pecan Facts:

"Pecan" comes from an Algonquin word, meaning ‘a hard to crack stone.’
Native pecans are definitely harder to open, with the shell offering some protection against animals and insects (and people!)
Without specialized equipment, native pecans are difficult and time-consuming to open, yet they make some of the best desserts.
The pecan is the only major tree-nut indigenous to North America.
Native trees can live to be over 200 years old. Many were planted by rivers overflowing and carrying nuts downstream, or by wild animals.
Native pecan varieties are hardy! Wild pecans are resistant to higher temperatures and common diseases such as Pecan Scab.
Pecans are a type of hickory and are indigenous to Oklahoma and much of the southern US.

Pecans are tender to chew, versatile in recipes and one of the healthiest nuts you can eat! Here are some of the health benefits of pecans:

Rich in Healthy Fats: Pecans are packed with monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
Nutrient-Rich: They are a good source of various essential nutrients, including vitamin E, manganese, and magnesium, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Antioxidant Properties: Pecans contain antioxidants like flavonoids, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports Brain Health: The vitamin E and antioxidants in pecans may help protect brain cells from oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
Aids Digestive Health: Pecans are a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive regularity and may help prevent constipation.
Weight Management: Despite being calorie-dense, pecans can be part of a healthy diet due to their satiating effect, helping to curb hunger and promote feelings of fullness.
Blood Sugar Control: Some studies suggest that consuming pecans may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels, making them a suitable choice for individuals with diabetes or at risk of developing it.

Tips For Storing Pecans:

"Cool and Dry" are the most important things to remember about storage. If using right away, there is no need to refrigerate pecans. If it will be a while before you need them, they should be packaged in plastic or glass containers to keep the best flavor. Pecans are oily and might absorb flavors from other items stored nearby. Pecans can be thawed and re-frozen to use in recipes and for eating.

The nut-filling stage for pecans is usually from mid-August to early October, with harvest occuring between September and December, depending on the variety. Freshness and flavor depend more on the storage and care after harvest than the timing of the harvest itself.

Once pecans get older they start to turn dark or dry. This doesn't mean they aren't safe to eat, but as the oil and moisture evaporates out they tend become less tasty. Most people are only familiar with these dark brown pecans found at regular grocery stores. By comparison, our Nut House pecans should be golden and more flavorful! If your pecans are squishy or moldy, discard them.

Tips For Baking With Native Pecans:

If picking and shelling your own pecans, they will benefit from being rinsed off and dried in the oven- or even toasted- to remove any stray pieces of shells and dust.
If buying the pieces, they are ready to use right out of the bag. To make a pie, many people like to use the pieces or smaller sized halves which makes it easier to cut. The top can be decorated with a variety of other colors and shapes of pecan for a unique look.
Most recipes call for between 1 1/2 to 2 cups of pecans. A pound sized bag is enough to make a pie plus have leftovers to snack on.

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