How to Toast Pecans?

Why you'll love this?

• Makes a convenient, satisfying and healthy snack.
• Perfect to use in all your favorite pies, crumbles, crisps, cakes, muffins, cupcakes and much more.
• Delicious topped over your oatmeal, salads or casseroles.
• Toasting develops maillard reaction and makes pecans crisper, crunchier with a delicious nutty flavor.
• Toasted pecans tend to have a longer shelf life compared to raw pecans because the toasting process can help prevent rancidity.

How to buy pecans?

When selecting pecans in a grocery store, you'll want to look for nuts that are of uniform color and free from any mold or discoloration. Check the packaging for any signs of damage, punctures, or holes that might indicate exposure to air, which can lead to rancidity.

If you find them in a loose bin, then they should feel firm and not soft or spongy, when given a gentle squeeze. Softness can be a sign of age or staleness.

Whole pecans in their shells tend to stay fresher longer than their pre shelled counterparts.

Seasoning ideas

While this toasted pecan recipe is ideal for adding into your favorite sweet or savory dishes, seasoning them turns them into a delectable snack. Simply coat raw pecans with any of the following combinations and then toast according to instructions, to create an irresistible treat.

• Melted butter, ground cinnamon and granulated sugar.
• Honey with a pinch of salt.
• Brown sugar and a dash of vanilla extract.
• Maple syrup and salted butter.
• Cocoa powder and powdered sugar.
• Freshly minced rosemary and sea salt.
• Cayenne pepper, brown sugar and a pinch of salt.
• Garlic powder, olive oil, salt and parmesan cheese.
• Curry powder or Mexican seasoning blend.
• French herb de province and sea salt.
• Cumin, chili powder, garlic powder and salt for south west kick.
• Dried oregano, basil, thyme and salt.
• Lemon pepper seasoning.
• Everything bagel seasoning.

1. Spread the pecans in an even layer in a preheated 300 degree air fryer basket. Air fry for 5 to 6 minutes, until deep brown in color, shaking your basket once halfway through cooking.
2. Let pecans cool completely, before storing or using in your favorite recipes, like the sweet potato muffins.

Place a large skillet on the stove over medium heat. When the skillet is hot, add the pecans, and cook stirring occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes or the nuts are fragrant and deep brown in color.

Tip: Please avoid leaving the stove unattended, as the nuts can burn quickly

Transfer the toasted pecans onto a large plate, spread to a single layer and let cool completely.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans on a large baking sheet. Bake until the nuts are darker or deep brown in color and fragrant, 9 to 14 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through baking.

Place the baking sheet on a wire rack and let it cool completely and use in mashed sweet potatoes.

How to toast in microwave?

Microwaving pecans for toasting is a fast and convenient technique. However, it is essential to keep a watchful eye to avoid burning the pecans. Use a low-power setting and brief intervals to create a controlled and uniform toasting process.

To toast them in the microwave, spread the raw pecans in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave in short intervals, 30 seconds to 1 minute each, in the lowest setting, ideally around 10 to 20 percent power.

The low power setting will help prevent them from scorching. Stir the pecans after each interval for an even toasting. This will help prevent hot spots and ensure that the pecans are toasted uniformly.

Cook until they look deeply browned and fragrant. Transfer them immediately to another plate or baking sheet and let cool completely. This will help prevent them from continuing to cook from residual heat.

How to store?

To keep toasted pecans fresh and maintain their flavor and texture, it's essential to store them properly. The best way to store toasted pecans, is to let them cool completely to room temperature.

• Room temperature - Transfer them into a clean and dry airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Seal well, and store in a cool, dark place. Avoid exposing the toasted nuts to direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause them to turn rancid more quickly.
• Refrigerator - While it's not necessary, you can store toasted pecans in the fridge to extend their shelf life. Just ensure the container is airtight to prevent the pecans from absorbing any moisture or odors from the fridge.
• Freezer - Freezing you toasted pecans is a great way to extend their shelf life for months. Place them in an airtight container or a vacuum-sealed bag, remove excess air and freeze them for up to a year. They can be used directly in recipes without thawing or bring to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

How to use?

Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to a wide variety of sweet and savory dishes. Here are some ways to use toasted pecans:

• Snacking: Enjoy them on their own as a tasty and nutritious snack.
• Salads: Sprinkle on your favorite salads for crunchy texture and flavor. They are especially delicious in fruity salads like spinach and strawberry salad.
• Cereals: Sprinkle them in your morning cereal for extra crunch and flavor.
• Yogurt: Top your Greek yogurt with fresh berries, toasted pecans, and honey for a mid-morning snack.
• Baking: Add them to various baked goods, such as brownies, muffins, cakes, coffee cakes or cupcakes.
• Oatmeal: They are perfect sprinkled in your morning oatmeal for a delightful contrast in texture.
• Candied Pecans: Make candied pecans in a skillet , by cooking them with butter, brown sugar and salt. They make a great homemade gift during the Holidays.
• Stuffing: Toasted pecans add flavor and texture to your Holiday stuffing or dressing.
• Breakfast: Top your homemade waffles or pancakes with some chopped toasted pecans.
• Ice cream toppings: They are perfect for sprinkling on your ice cream, especially with flavors like vanilla, butter pecan or caramel.
• Trail mix: Create your own trail mix by combining with dried fruits, other toasted nuts, and dark chocolate chunks.
• Chicken: Enhance the flavor and texture of your pan-fried or baked chicken by dredging them with a pecan crumb coating, which creates a crispy crust.
• Pies: Pecan pie is especially elevated when made using toasted pecans.

Helpful tips?

• Reduce the cooking time if using chopped pecans.
• Always cook over low to medium heat to ensure even roasting.
• Remove them promptly and avoid over cooking. They are done when they are deep brown and fragrant.
• If you like to toast a larger batch, then cook them in batches to guarantee evenly toasted nuts.