Pecans, named pakans by Algonquin Indians because of their hard
shell, are a native American nut. They are a member of the
hickory family and grow in temperate climates. The third ranking
crop in the United States, pecans are cultivated in the States
of Georgia, Oklahoma, and Texas. They are at their peak when
harvested in the fall, but are available year round. A smooth,
reddish-brown, one-inch (2.54 cm) long oval shell encloses two
golden-brown crinkled lobes with ivory-colored meat. Pecans have
a buttery, soft-textured, slightly bittersweet taste that is
enhanced when toasted. Place pecans on a baking sheet and bake
for 6-8 minutes in a 350 degree F (180 degree C) oven until
lightly browned. Cool before using. Pecans are used in pastries
and desserts such as the famous Southern pecan pie, quick
breads, cakes, cookies, candies, pralines and ice creams. Pecans
are one of the more expensive nuts and are sold shelled, either
coarsely chopped or in halves, or unshelled. When buying
unshelled pecans, look for cl