Orange-glazed Pecans

Orange-glazed Pecans Recipe: A Delicious Sweet Treat from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Orange-glazed pecans are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or topping that adds a burst of citrus flavor to any dish. These sweet and crunchy pecans are perfect for snacking on their own or adding to salads, desserts, or even savory dishes.

History

The combination of orange and pecans has been a popular flavor pairing for centuries. Pecans are native to North America and have been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations. The addition of orange juice and sugar to create a glaze for the pecans adds a sweet and tangy twist to this classic nut.

Ingredients

1 cup of sugar
juice from one orange
2.5 cups of pecan halves

How to prepare

In a pan, combine sugar and orange juice.
Cook over medium heat for approximately 2 minutes, until a syrup forms.
Add pecans and stir continuously for 3 to 5 minutes, until the syrup is absorbed.
Transfer the nuts onto waxed paper to cool.
This step can be done in advance.

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor.
Substitute maple syrup for the sugar for a different twist on the glaze.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the pecans continuously while cooking in the syrup to prevent them from burning.

- You can adjust the amount of sugar and orange juice to suit your taste preferences.

- Store the glazed pecans in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve orange-glazed pecans as a topping for salads, yogurt, or oatmeal, or enjoy them on their own as a tasty snack.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making orange-glazed pecans is to cook the pecans in the syrup until it is absorbed, creating a sticky and sweet coating on the nuts.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of nut in place of pecans, such as almonds or walnuts, for a different flavor and texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the glazed pecans in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the orange-glazed pecans in a decorative bowl or jar for a beautiful and tasty snack or gift.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair orange-glazed pecans with a glass of white wine or a cup of hot tea for a delicious and satisfying treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the glazed pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of orange-glazed pecans contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of orange-glazed pecans contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of orange-glazed pecans contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of orange-glazed pecans contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pecans are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc, which are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Pecans are tree nuts and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Orange-glazed pecans are a delicious and nutritious snack that provides a good source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Orange-glazed pecans are a simple and delicious snack or topping that adds a burst of citrus flavor to any dish. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy these sweet and crunchy pecans in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Orange-glazed Pecans. It was a warm summer day, the kind of day that makes you want to stay inside and experiment in the kitchen. I had been flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother, looking for inspiration. As I turned the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out and landed at my feet.

Curious, I picked it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for Orange-glazed Pecans. The paper was yellowed with age and the ink was faded, but I could make out the ingredients and instructions clearly. As I read through the recipe, my mouth watered at the thought of the sweet and tangy flavor combination of orange and pecans.

I knew right then and there that I had to make this recipe. I gathered all the ingredients listed on the paper and set to work in the kitchen. The scent of orange zest filled the air as I mixed the glaze together, the warm aroma making me even more excited to taste the finished product.

Once the pecans were coated in the orange glaze, I spread them out on a baking sheet and popped them in the oven. As they baked, the kitchen was filled with the delicious scent of roasted nuts and citrus. I couldn't wait to try them.

When the timer finally went off, I pulled the baking sheet out of the oven and let the pecans cool. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavor. The sweetness of the glaze paired perfectly with the nuttiness of the pecans, creating a mouthwatering treat that I knew would become a family favorite.

I made the recipe for Orange-glazed Pecans many times after that initial discovery. Each time, I would tweak the recipe slightly, adding a little more orange zest here or a touch of cinnamon there. I loved experimenting with different flavor combinations and seeing how they enhanced the already delicious pecans.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, each time receiving rave reviews. It became a staple at holiday gatherings and special occasions, a dish that everyone looked forward to tasting. I even entered the recipe in a local cooking competition and won first place, much to the delight of my family.

As I grew older, I began to realize the importance of passing down recipes like Orange-glazed Pecans to the next generation. I started teaching my grandchildren how to make the dish, showing them the same love and care that I put into it each time I made it. I wanted them to experience the same joy and satisfaction that I felt when I cooked for my loved ones.

Now, whenever I make Orange-glazed Pecans, I think back to that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe. I am grateful for the chance encounter with that piece of paper and the delicious treat that it led me to create. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am thankful for the opportunity to share that passion with others through the recipes that I have collected and perfected over the years.

As I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. The memories of past cooking experiences flood my mind, bringing a smile to my face. I am reminded of the joy that cooking has brought me throughout my life and the connections that it has helped me forge with those I love.

As I take a bite of a freshly baked Orange-glazed Pecan, I am filled with a sense of satisfaction and pride. This recipe has become more than just a dish to me—it is a symbol of my love for cooking and my desire to create delicious meals for my family and friends. And for that, I am truly grateful.