By Farmer Frank of “Frankly Speaking”
Now look, I love a good pecan pie just as much as the next Southern soul. It’s a classic, and it sure brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen and holidays gone by. But let me tell ya something folks—Fresh Mississippi Pecans ain't just for pies.
Right here on the farm, we’re crackin’ and shellin’ the finest Shelled Pecans this side of the Mississippi, and I’ve been tossin’ ‘em into all kinds of dishes that might just surprise you. If you’re feelin’ a little adventurous or tired of the same ol’ recipes, I’ve got some downright tasty ways to bring pecans into your kitchen that’ll make you rethink how you use ’em.
So grab a handful of pecans and let’s get to stirrin’.
🐓 1. Pecan-Crusted Chicken (or Fish, or Whatever You’ve Got)
Y’all ever swap out breadcrumbs for crushed pecans? Whew, buddy. That buttery crunch adds a whole new level of flavor.
Here’s what I do:
- Grind up a cup of Fresh Shelled Pecans—not too fine, leave a little texture.
Stir in a good pinch of salt, pepper, and maybe some smoked paprika if you’re feelin’ bold. - Dip your protein (I like chicken or catfish) in flour, then egg, then roll it in them crushed pecans.
- Bake it, pan-fry it, or air-fry it if you’re fancy. The result? Crunchy, nutty, and downright delicious.
🌿 2. Pecan Pesto: Farm-Fresh and Nutty
Now this one might surprise you—pecan pesto. I swapped out pine nuts for pecans one day when I ran outta the usual stuff, and I ain’t gone back since.
You’ll need:
- A handful of Shelled Pecans, toasted up in a dry skillet
- Fresh basil (or even spinach if that’s what you’ve got growin’)
- Garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, salt, and pepper
Toss it all in a blender or food processor, give it a whirl, and boom—you’ve got yourself a spread that’s good on pasta, grilled meats, or a slice of cornbread if we’re bein’ honest.
🫙 3. Pecan-Infused Oil: Flavor in a Jar
This here’s one of my favorite tricks. You toast up some pecans and let ‘em steep in a neutral oil—try pecan oil but grapeseed or light olive oil works just fine too.
Simple steps:
- Toast 1 cup of Mississippi Pecans
- Add to 1 cup oil in a small saucepan
- Simmer low and slow for about 20 minutes, don't let it get too hot
- Let it cool, strain it, and pour it into a bottle
Now you’ve got yourself a homemade oil that’s good on roasted taters, drizzled on salads, or even brushed on grilled corn.
🥣 4. Savory Pecan Granola (Yes, You Read That Right)
I know what you’re thinkin’—granola’s for breakfast. But not this kind. This is savory pecan granola, and it’s perfect sprinkled on a salad or a bowl of soup for a little somethin’ extra.
Mix together:
- Oats
- Chopped Shelled Pecans
- Olive oil
- A touch of maple syrup
- Salt and some fresh rosemary or thyme
Bake it low and slow till it’s golden brown. Store it in a mason jar and thank me later.
🥃 6. Pecans in Cocktails: Happy Hour, Farm-Style
Alright, now we’re talkin’. Pecans can make a mighty fine appearance at your next cocktail hour.
Try this:
- Soak some toasted Fresh Pecans in bourbon for a few days. Strain it, and mix into an Old Fashioned with a twist of orange peel.
- Or simmer a pecan simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar with a handful of chopped pecans), and mix it into whiskey, iced tea, or lemonade.
It’s like sippin’ the South in a glass.
🧀 7. Pecan-Crusted Cheese Logs for Fancy Gatherin’s
When the missus has folks over, we whip up this little number.
How it’s done:
- Mix cream cheese, goat cheese, a little honey, and chopped herbs
- Roll it into a log or ball
- Press into crushed Shelled Pecans
- Chill it, slice it, and serve with crackers or fruit
Looks fancy, tastes farm-fresh.
🌱 Best Flavor Buddies for Pecans
Pecans play real nice with all kinds of flavors. Here’s what I love pairing ‘em with:
Herbs & Spices
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Cinnamon
- Cayenne (for a little kick)
Fruits
- Apples
- Pears
- Figs
- Oranges
Other Goodies
- Maple syrup
- Aged cheese
- Dark chocolate
Bourbon (of course)
Use these as a starting point, and don’t be afraid to experiment. That’s half the fun.
🍂 Come Get Your Pecans Straight from the Source
If you’re ready to bring some real-deal Fresh Mississippi Pecans into your kitchen, I know just the place. Right here at the Bass Pecan Company, we grow, shell, and ship pecans that are perfect for all the ideas I’ve shared—and a whole lot more.
And remember, around here we say: if it tastes good with butter, it probably tastes better with pecans. Y’all stay curious in that kitchen—and keep it frankly delicious.
—
Farmer Frank, signing off from the orchard
