And Americans lean heavily on pecans (photos of the dishes are appetizing): they bake cookies and pies with nuts, crumble them into salads and add them to hot dishes. I wonder what kind of nuts did the squirrel gnaw on in Pushkin’s fairy tale at Prince Guidon’s place on Buyan Island? It is unlikely that it was a pecan, but this is not a reason to ignore such an interesting product...

Treat or medicine?

Pecan and walnut are very similar. The difference is in size (the first one is slightly smaller) and in the shell itself (in pecan it is smooth and oblong, similar to). The kernels themselves are similar in taste and appearance, but the pecans are more tender and soft. That is why it must be eaten immediately after removing the shell, otherwise the exotic fruit will spoil.

The tree itself is almost 40 meters high, unlike the usual hazel tree, and the pecan lives, Wikipedia will not lie, for as many as 300 years - that’s how many nuts can be collected from it. It will not be possible to grow it on your own plot, that is, in Russia and the CIS countries. Pecans are capricious; serve them in the Gulf of Mexico monsoons. Although about 200 years ago pecans were brought to Crimea and Central Asia, and they liked the Black Sea coast and the Caspian bays.

This pecan nut is very tasty, its beneficial properties are given by a vitamin complex, micro and macroelements. A huge percentage of fat (70%), the presence of sugar (14%) and protein (11%) is contained in the kernels. Therefore, it is very high in calories. Just 200 grams of nuts contain almost the daily requirement of calories (1700 kcal). You can eat a couple of kernels to whet your appetite or relieve fatigue. But you shouldn’t “trample” it with bowls, as Marfusha did from the fairy tale “Morozko”. By the way, she ate not pecans, but hazelnuts, cracking the shells with her powerful teeth.

• Vitamin A helps the eyes focus better and see further and more clearly.
• B vitamins have an effect on the thyroid gland, metabolism, blood formula, muscles and mental activity.
• Vitamin C, also known as, increases our health, protects against environmental hazards, removes toxins from the body, being.
• Vitamin E rejuvenates the body, cells, and triggers regenerative functions.

American scientists were surprised to learn about one amazing property that pecans have. The benefits of one of the components may become a discovery for oncology. Pecan kernels contain several types of vitamin E. And one of them breaks down cholesterol plaques, protects cells, DNA, and body proteins from oxidation, prevents aging and improves heart function. But something else is striking - this variety destroys diseased cells, leaving healthy ones alive. Already based on oil and pecan extract, gamma-tocopherol was created - a drug that in the near future will be used to treat cancer patients from prostate, breast, duodenal and lung cancer.

In addition to vitamins, the nut contains iron, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, potassium and magnesium. It contains polyunsaturated acids, tannic acid.

What do we treat with pecans?

All this scattering of minerals and vitamins of the pecan nut perfectly copes with a decent amount of all sorts of ailments and general fatigue.

• Regulates sexual function.
• Relieves fatigue.
• Children eat better if they chew a nut or two before lunch.
• In the off-season, nuts can replace pharmacy vitamin complexes.
• Increases concentration.
• The body is filled with energy and strength.
• Increases efficiency and endurance.

Interesting: the Indians planted these hazel trees around their camps. After 8 years it was possible to harvest the first harvest. By eating nut kernels, the Indians became hardy, strong and lightning fast. They kept the remaining nuts uncracked. The pecan shell is dense, without holes, so no insects or microorganisms could get inside - the nuts could be stored for a very long time. For infants and old people, due to their lack of teeth, the kernels were ground in a mortar, adding water, until a homogeneous milky substance was formed. The resulting liquid was sweetish, very nutritious and pleasant to the taste. Children grew better and were less capricious; old people had the strength to look after their children and do housework.

Nut oil. It's easier to buy than to make it yourself

Like any nut rich in fat, oil is extracted from pecans - it is useful both in cosmetology and in pharmacology. But it is impossible to obtain oil yourself. This can only be done under heavy pressure and cold pressing. This is the only way it retains its properties.

When buying oil in a store or pharmacy, pay attention to its shade - it should be dark golden, but not brown. The smell of the oil is nutty with a slight hint of aroma. And the taste is also olive, but with a nutty aftertaste.

• The effect of nut oil extends to heart function, improving the condition of blood vessels, lowering cholesterol levels, preventing atherosclerosis, and protecting against varicose veins.
• If you have a cold, you can do oil rubbing and inhalation.
• Oil lotions will stop the bleeding.
• By smearing your temples with a couple of drops of this substance, you can relieve even a severe headache.
• For mosquito bites and other insects, sunburn, irritation, fungus, dermatitis, bruising and swelling, it is also recommended to anoint the body with pecan oil.
• In spa salons, nut oil is often added to massage creams to moisturize, refresh and renew the skin.
• Cosmetic products for mature skin also include pecan in this form - it renews cells, increases their elasticity, and moisturizes even dry skin.

Pecan nut harm. Is everything so rosy?

As when studying any other product, we ask the question: “Pecan. Nut. Benefit and harm. What prevails in it? In the case of this fruit, everything is extremely simple. Pecans are absolutely harmless.

But! If you eat it in doses. Even shellfish (, and) can turn into a tragedy for the stomach if you overeat, let alone such high-calorie nuts. Therefore, do not be surprised if, after a bag of nuts eaten as seeds, you begin to feel sick, heaviness in the stomach appears, and then diarrhea - the fats should come out.

And don’t forget that, despite the high calorie content, pecans awaken a beastly appetite. And then: “Farewell, figure, we won’t see each other again soon.” And you will have to go on any other diet and chew it.

Cooking. Spied on by Americans

In cooking, pecans are used raw and toasted, dried and ground into powder. It is used to season salads and goes well with fish dishes, vegetable and rice side dishes. They can enrich balsamic vinegar and add a zest of flavor to mushrooms and cheese. And coffee connoisseurs add pecan nuts to coffee beans, grind them, brew an aromatic drink, add a couple of drops of orange extract to reveal the aroma and enjoy.

The most famous American dessert, the recipe for which every housewife knows, is pecan pie. We suggest you write it down too. Incredibly delicious!

• 2.5 cups pecan kernels;
• 175 g flour;
• half a teaspoon of salt;
• 225 g butter or margarine;
• 250 g sugar (it is better to take brown);
• 5 tbsp. spoons of water;
• 150 g molasses;
• 3 large;
• vanillin or vanilla essence;
• ice cream.

• Cut the butter into cubes (leaving some for soaking and greasing the mold), mix with flour and salt. Add ice water and grind the dough again.
• The result was shortbread dough. A good dough should not crumble raw in your hands, but should hold together in a lump.
• Divide the dough into 4 parts, fold each of them into quarters, as we do with puff pastry. We wrap the resulting envelopes in film and put them in the refrigerator for an hour.
• After an hour, we take it out and get ready to roll out the dough. Meanwhile, the oven is already heating up to 180-190 degrees Celsius.
• Roll out the dough so that it covers the entire diameter of the mold and extends 2-3 cm onto the sides.

Tip: To prevent the dough from bursting or puffing up, pierce it with a toothpick or fork.

• Place the mold with the dough in the refrigerator for half an hour and prepare the filling.
• We divide the nuts into two parts. We chop one.
• Melt the rest of the butter, add sugar and other spices. Remove from heat and cool.
• Place the pan with the dough in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.
• While the finished base is cooling, beat the eggs, add sugar with butter, spices and molasses, and chopped nuts.
• Put the filling into the mold. Decorate the top of the pie with whole kernels.
• Bake for another 40-50 minutes.

The cooled pie is served sliced ​​and topped with a scoop of ice cream.

Pecan...have you heard of this one? Pecan nuts are rightfully classified as superfoods. Today you will learn about the benefits and harms of this amazing product for orgasm. Pecans are one of the most popular edible nuts in the United States and are native to North America and Mexico. Pecan trees, native to South and Central North America, were used as a food source by Native Americans for many centuries before the arrival of colonists. Pecans were not domesticated until the 17th century; the first plantations of this plant appeared in Mexico. The pecan tree is a large deciduous tree belonging to the nut family and can bear fruit for 300 years. Nuts appear in autumn.

What does a pecan look like?

In appearance, the pecan resembles the familiar walnut to all of us, but the size of the pecan nut is larger. The nut itself has an elongated oblong shape and a smooth shell surface. Behind the golden-brown shell lies a beige kernel with a grooved surface. The kernel occupies from 40% to 60% of the internal space of the nut. Nuts have a characteristic soft creamy, buttery taste and texture due to their high content of monounsaturated fatty acids. Their rich, buttery flavor makes them suitable for use in both sweet and savory dishes. The famous pecan pie is a classic South American dish that features pecans as the main ingredient. Raw pecans can be salted or sweetened and used as a healthy snack. In America, pecans are widely used in the confectionery industry as an additive in cookies, candies, pastries, and cakes.

What are the beneficial properties of pecan nuts?

Pecan Benefits: The Amazing Benefits of Pecans for Skin, Hair and Health

Like most other nuts, pecans contain a variety of nutrients, minerals, antioxidants and vitamins, which are responsible for the nut's remarkable health benefits.

1. Benefits for the cardiovascular system:

Pecans are rich in healthy dietary fiber, which lowers bad cholesterol levels in the blood and improves heart health, reducing the risk of coronary artery disease, and also has a preventive effect against certain types of cancer. The oleic acid (monounsaturated fat) contained in pecans, combined with phenolic antioxidants, also supports healthy heart function by preventing unwanted oxidation of blood lipids and helps prevent coronary artery disease and strokes.

2. Benefits for digestion:

The beneficial dietary fiber contained in pecans normalizes intestinal function and improves peristalsis. This allows the intestines to work more efficiently by cleansing the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, pecans prevent constipation and reduce the risk of colitis, colon cancer and hemorrhoids.

3.Helps in weight loss:

Research has shown that a diet containing nuts such as pecans helps in weight loss. This is because consuming nuts increases satiety and increases metabolism.

4. Reduces the risk of developing breast cancer:

5. Benefits of nuts for bones and teeth:

Pecans are rich in calcium and phosphorus. Phosphorus is one of the most abundant minerals in the body after calcium. About 85% of phosphorus is found in bones and teeth, while the remaining 15% is found in cells and tissues. Phosphorus, along with calcium, promotes healthy bones and teeth. This mineral is vital for the growth and repair of cells and tissues, as well as the production of DNA and RNA. And finally, it prevents muscle pain that can occur due to high physical activity.

6.Anti-inflammatory properties of pecans:

Pecans are rich in magnesium, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Research has shown that increased magnesium intake reduces indicators of inflammation in the body such as CRP (C-reactive protein), TNF-alpha (tumor necrosis factor alpha), and IL6 (interleukins 6). Helps reduce inflammation in artery walls, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and other inflammatory diseases.

7.Reduces blood pressure:

Magnesium present in pecans helps lower blood pressure. Although pecans cannot cure hypertension, they help reduce its symptoms.

8. Reduces the risk of stroke:

Studies have shown that consuming 100 milligrams of magnesium per day reduces the risk of stroke by 9%. Pecans can be a good source of magnesium if included regularly in your diet.

9.Anti-cancer properties of pecans:

Pecans are rich in phytochemicals such as polyphenolic antioxidants, ellagic acid, vitamin E, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds play an important role in removing toxic free radicals from the body, thereby protecting it from diseases, cancer and infections. Ellagic acid has antiproliferative properties, inhibits DNA binding to carcinogens such as nitrosamine and polycyclic hydrocarbons, thereby protecting the human body from cancer.

10.Strengthens the immune system:

Pecans are high in manganese. This trace element is a powerful antioxidant. Manganese helps boost immunity and protects nerve cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. Adequate intake of manganese is vital for nerve conduction and brain function.

Pecan benefits for skin:

Pecans, like most other nuts, are rich in nutrients such as zinc, vitamin E, vitamin A, folic acid and phosphorus, which play an important role in maintaining healthy skin. Key Benefits of Pecan Nuts for Skin:

11.Prevents skin problems:

The appearance of our skin depends on how we nourish it from the inside. Thus, proper nutrition is very important to maintain healthy skin and prevent skin problems. Toxins inside our body slow down the metabolism in the skin, disrupt the functioning of its cells, causing inflammatory rashes, acne, increased oiliness, and unhealthy complexion. Pecans are a good source of fiber, which can do wonders for our health and therefore our skin. Fiber helps in removing toxins from the body, thereby improving the appearance of the skin.

12.Helps relieve inflammatory skin manifestations:

Thanks to the high content of zinc, which is also involved in maintaining skin health, it protects the skin from all kinds of infections. Vitamin A: acts as an antioxidant on the one hand, but on the other hand it has a beneficial effect on complexion.

13. Pecans prevent aging of the body:

Healthy skin and hair are a sign of a healthy body. Hair follicles require sufficient nutrients to maintain their proper functioning and prevent hair problems. The nutritional value of pecans makes them beneficial for healthy and beautiful hair.

14. Stimulates hair growth:

Pecans are an excellent source of L-arginine, an amino acid that, when applied topically, helps treat male pattern baldness and also promote healthy hair growth. Strong blood flow to the hair roots is vital for healthy hair growth. L-arginine is beneficial in this regard, the amino acid improves the condition of artery walls, making them more flexible, reducing the tendency to form blood clots that can block blood flow.

15.Prevents hair loss:

Anemia is one of the most common causes of hair loss. This is caused by a deficiency of iron in the blood. Pecans, being a good source of iron, can be included in your diet to improve iron levels in the blood and hence fight hair loss.

Pecan nut beneficial properties video:

Pecan nutritional value

Pecans are quite high in calories, but most of these calories are 90% unsaturated fatty acids, and pecans do not contain sodium. Let's look at the calories in pecans.

Pecans are harmful. Side effects

Pecans are safe for most people, with no side effects associated with its use. However, people with hypersensitivity to this product may have an allergic reaction to pecans. In cases of allergic reactions to pecan nuts, the immune system reacts to the proteins contained in the nut, causing symptoms such as hives, vomiting, swelling of the larynx, shortness of breath and dizziness. All these reactions are associated with the release of the chemical histamine.

Macadamia is a high-calorie Australian nut. This type of nut is considered the most expensive in the world because it is difficult to grow, it is susceptible to pest attacks, and the tree itself begins to bear fruit only in 8-10 years. Macadamia ripens under the hot sun for 6-7 months.

A ripe nut has a spherical shape and a diameter of 1.5-2 cm. The kernel is covered with a hard-to-remove leathery green-brown shell. In factory conditions, an automatic line with two rollers is used to remove the shell. The distance between the shafts is specially made smaller than the average size of the nut; as a result, the shell bursts and crumbles, and the kernels remain intact and move for further processing.

The wild nut family was first described by botanist Ferdinand von Müller more than 150 years ago. The nut was named after his best friend John McAdam. The cultivation of the plant began in 1858. This was done by Professor Walter Hill, who began the mass distribution of seedlings among the local population and wrote a treatise on the beneficial properties of macadam. Initially, the collection of nuts was carried out manually and was quite long and labor-intensive. One person could collect no more than 150 kg of nuts per day. The growth of technological progress led to the invention in Australia of a nut collection unit, which could collect up to 3 tons of macadamia in 8 hours. In 1972, a record nut harvest of 70 thousand tons was harvested per year.

There are currently nine known varieties of macadamia. Of these, five grow exclusively in Australia, while the other two are cultivated in Hawaii, Brazil, California and South Africa. The plant is not very picky and prefers well-drained, oily soil with medium acidity. It is not resistant to frost and the lowest temperature for it is +3°C.

Nutritional value per 100 grams:

Beneficial properties of macadamia

Composition and presence of nutrients

Macadamia nuts contain a large amount of nutrients. The main ones are vitamins (group B, PP), minerals (calcium, selenium, copper, phosphorus, zinc, potassium, sodium), organic acids and fats.

Useful and healing properties

The nut is credited with many beneficial properties. It is believed that systematic consumption of nuts gives strength, relieves headaches caused by migraines, eliminates skin problems, and normalizes its color and oiliness. Also, the substances of the nut are able to remove accumulated excess cholesterol from the body, which is an excellent prevention of cardiovascular diseases, help with diseases of the joints and bones, and are taken in therapeutic therapy for sore throat, meningitis and arthrosis.

Essential oil is produced industrially from macadamia, which can treat second-degree burns of various etymologies, remove toxins, rejuvenate the skin, and smooth out fine wrinkles. Macadamia oil is very similar in its properties to the fat of the human sebaceous glands, so it is used to stimulate subcutaneous blood microcirculation and strengthen hair follicles.

In cooking

Macadamia nuts, due to their similar taste to hazelnuts, are widely used for making chocolate desserts, salads or other seafood dishes. Some gourmets believe that to reveal the full flavor of the nut, it should be consumed with sherry or strong coffee.

Dangerous properties of macadamia

Macadamia nut has no contraindications for consumption. Only manifestation is possible

The pecan nut is widely eaten by residents of the United States, where, by the way, it grows. It is the southern part of the United States that is considered the birthplace of this wood product, where it is most often found off the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Pecan fruits resemble walnuts in appearance, but taste slightly different. In this article we will talk in detail about the calorie content and beneficial properties of this, as well as how to choose it correctly, clean it and store it for a long time.

Calorie content and chemical composition

In 100 g of this wood product there are 691 kcal, among all calories the protein part is 9.2 g, carbohydrate - 4.3 g, fat - 72.0 g. The composition of this nut includes a wide range of various minerals, micro- and macroelements, polyunsaturated fatty acids, food fibers, mono- and disaccharides.

In addition, pecans are rich in a variety of B vitamin compounds, as well as vitamins K, A, E, C, PP. The product also contains choline, beta-carotene and many minerals: potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium.

Beneficial features

This nut is considered similar not only in its biological description, but also in some beneficial properties. In addition, pecans are used to make tasty and healthy butter, even with a chocolate flavor, which can be found on store shelves.

Orekhov

One of the most important beneficial properties of these nuts is the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids in them, which can suppress the level of “bad” cholesterol (Omega-6) and increase the level of good cholesterol (Omega-3). Omega-3 contains essential oleic acid, which is not produced by the human body and must be supplied to it from the outside.
Omega-3 is only found in certain types of nuts, flaxseed oil and some types of sea fish. Most people living in our country are deficient in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which is why we have always had an increased risk of death from cardiovascular diseases. Omega-3s can normalize the functioning of the heart muscle, improve the condition of blood vessels, and thus reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack. In addition, these fatty acids kill tumor germs in the human body and also normalize the condition of the skin.

Did you know? 80% of the world's pecan reserves are located in the United States.

Pecans are high in calories because they contain a lot of healthy fats. Some of them have antioxidant properties and slow down the aging process. By the way, Omega-3 fatty acids have a significant influence on this factor.
During experiments, scientists found that smokers who eat natural sources of Omega-3 have much less wrinkles than smokers who avoid taking polyunsaturated fatty acids.

This nut is very rich in carotene, which helps maintain normal vision function for many years. Carotene prevents the occurrence of many eye diseases, including cataracts and glaucoma.
In addition, carotene has antitoxic properties and helps remove various toxic substances from the blood, and also prevents the deposition of byproducts of fat oxidation on the walls of blood vessels, which form atherosclerotic plaques. If you still don’t know what pecans are, then keep in mind that they are one of nature’s best gifts against hypertension and arrhythmia.

In addition, pecans help strengthen the body's defenses and improve appetite. They are also able to adjust testosterone levels, which directly affects the quality of sexual life. Regular consumption of such nuts will improve the functioning of many vital organs.

Oils

In this section we will talk about the benefits of natural, pressed butter from nuts, rather than a paste that is spread on bread and gives your taste buds the aroma of chocolate. Of course, paste is also useful in some specific cases, but natural oil undoubtedly has many more beneficial properties.

Important! Buy only cold-pressed oil, because when hot-processed, some vitamins in its composition, as well as polyunsaturated fatty acids, can break down into other constituent substances that no longer benefit the body.

Natural pecan oil has found its use not only in cooking, but also in medicine and cosmetology. Moreover, in the last two areas, this product is used much more often than ordinary nuts, since the oil contains much more various useful substances per unit mass.

The best oil in terms of the concentration of those same beneficial substances will be if you use the cold-press method in its production. Natural pecan butter will have a pleasant nutty smell and a soft, delicate taste.
Walnut oil can be taken both internally and externally. It all depends on what purposes you are going to use it for. If pecan oil is used to season vegetable or fruit salads, it will help relieve cold symptoms, relieve headaches and strengthen the cardiovascular system. This product can also be applied to the skin. The pecan product will become an indispensable aid for bites, bruises, sunburn, irritations, fungal infections, etc.

Did you know? A pecan tree can bear fruit for 300 years.

The product made from pecan nuts has also found its application in cosmetology. Here the oil is used to moisturize, soften and protect the skin. This product protects the epidermis well from various external irritants. You can use nut oil for any skin type, but it will have a more beneficial and effective effect on dry and mature skin.

Possible harm

Pecan nuts have many beneficial properties and practically no contraindications. One of the main contraindications to the use of this product is allergic reactions. If you don’t have any, then you can safely eat it. But you should be careful with unlimited consumption, this is especially important for women who are watching their figure.
You need to be careful, because 300 grams of such nuts will cover your entire daily nutritional requirement, as they will give your body about two thousand calories.

How to choose when purchasing

These nuts reach their peak ripeness only in the fall, so they should be purchased during this period of the year. When choosing, pay attention to the shell: it must be clean and without mechanical damage. Shake the nuts and listen carefully to the sound; if everything rattles inside, it means the product is old, and quite possibly from last year. It is best to buy pecans unopened. This way you can smell them and examine them carefully. Choose only those nuts that have a natural smell and at the same time a coherent structure.

In what form to use

Pecans can be consumed in completely different forms: raw, dried, roasted. In addition, such nuts will become a tasty filling for various salads and baked goods. And some gourmets insist on pecans for elite drinks (cognac, liqueur, etc.). Walnut oil can be used to season salads, rice dishes, and a particularly tasty combination of pecan butter and trout meat.

Important! Heat-treated nuts lose some of their nutrients.

Some people in the United States make delicious coffee from these nuts: they grind the coffee beans and nuts and make brewed coffee from it, which has a special and unique taste. Athletes prepare energy drinks from such nuts, which are healthy, nutritious, and tasty.

How to clean

To remove the shell from these nuts as comfortably as possible, you need to use a nut cracker. But before that, you can make your task a little easier. Place all the nuts (not yet peeled) into a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, and then remove from heat. Then drain the pan and give the nuts time to dry. After this, they can be cleaned using a nut cracker.

North America is an amazing continent. The third largest continent on the planet with an interesting history, geography, flora and fauna. The Statue of Liberty and the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and the Mississippi River, the heritage of the Mayans and Aztecs, the mystical icon of Our Lady of Guadalupe, huge cacti and sequoias, magnolias and tulip trees - all this is about North America. It is also the birthplace of the very tasty and nutritious pecan nut, the chemical composition, properties, benefits and uses of which this publication is devoted to.

Pecan nut: what is it, where does it grow, varieties

The Indians - the indigenous inhabitants of America - used pecans for food for a very long time, even before the discovery of the continent by Columbus. In times of unsuccessful hunting, these nuts helped them survive - they were eaten, and also traded for food and necessary things from other tribes. Children, old and sick people were given pecans ground with water to strengthen their strength and for treatment; in particular, it was used if a nursing mother did not have enough milk.

Wandering across the lands of America, the Indians again and again planted walnut trees around their camps. This contributed not only to the spread of the plant across the mainland, but also to its selection, since the best nuts – smooth and with a thin shell – were selected for the next planting.
The fruits ripen on Carya pecan trees, or Carya illinoinensis, which grow in the south and east of the United States (Texas, Iowa, Mississippi and other states), Mexico, and Australia. The plant species belongs to the Hickory genus of the Walnut family. In Canada, varieties are bred that are resistant to lower temperatures. Common pecans are also grown in Central Asia.

The southern regions are best suited for breeding. The trees are demanding of heat and humidity, they need enough light, but they also cannot tolerate stagnation of water and overgrowing of the soil with weeds. During the first 3-4 years, caria growth is slow and the plant reaches only 50 cm. At first, the harvest does not exceed 6 kg, adult individuals produce 15-30 kg of nuts per year, and up to 200 kg can be collected from older ones.

In Russia, the pecan tree grows well in the Caucasus and Kazakhstan, but is rarely found in Crimea. The problem of breeding in our latitudes was due to the fact that due to the short summer and long growing season, the crop did not have time to ripen. But the breeders did not waste time. Pecan North nuts can ripen in climates with temperatures as low as -30°. And on its basis, early-fruiting varieties were bred - Dearstand, Snaps and others.

In the video, Yuri Krutikov from the Milenki family estate talks about frost-resistant walnut varieties. You can also buy pecan seedlings from him.

The pecan's closest relative is the hickory nut (they belong to the same genus and family). These two subspecies easily pollinate with each other, and the result of the crossing was the Hikan Barton variety. It ripens earlier than pecans, but has a thin, easily cracked shell, like hickory.

This is interesting: in the history of pecan breeding, there is a funny case when the American breeder Luther Burbank “overdid it” and created a variety with such a thin shell that birds pierced it, eating the entire crop.

How does caria grow? The tree is deciduous, tall (can reach 40-60 m), with a spreading wide crown, bears fruit for up to 300 years. It is also called chocolate pecan. The fruits are elongated, crack after ripening, and inside there is a nut-stone about 2-3 cm long, brown in color. A dark beige edible kernel is hidden under its slightly ribbed shell.

What does it taste like and what does it look like, comparison with a walnut

Outwardly, there are similarities between pecans and olives, which is why the former are also called olive nuts. And the kernels of these fruits resemble walnuts, but they are less ribbed and more elongated. The taste is also similar, but in pecan it is more delicate, soft and buttery, with a sweetish chocolate-creamy undertone. This is one of the most delicious nuts along with Brazil and macadamia.

By the way: the pecan kernel weighs more due to the thin shell and the absence of partitions, despite the fact that the unshelled fruits have approximately the same weight as a large walnut.

Other differences between pecan and walnut:

• contains more sugar;
• a little higher in calories;
• no bitterness, no tart taste;
• there are no internal partitions, so it is easier to remove it from the shell;
• is not attacked by nut moths (there are no wormy fruits);
• costs approximately 2 times more (pecans are one of the most expensive nuts);
• more demanding on growing conditions.

What is healthier - pecans or walnuts? In terms of calorie content, pecans are one step higher. Based on the chemical composition, it is impossible to say unambiguously which nut is better:

• Pecans have 2 times more vitamins E and A, fats, fluoride, but less protein, folate and pyridoxine.
• Walnuts contain more potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, they have more polyunsaturated fatty acids and almost 4 times less monounsaturated fatty acids.
• Pecans have 1.5 times more dietary fiber and almost 15 times less starch.

Application

Pecans can be eaten raw, dried, or toasted. Expensive liqueurs are infused with them and added to desserts. In cooking, crumbs of them are added to cottage cheese, baked goods (cakes, muffins, cheesecakes, etc.), mushroom, meat, vegetable and fish dishes, salads, and pea soup.

Vegans can make nutritious milk from pecans by placing a handful of nuts in a blender, adding 200 ml of water and blending. By the way, you can do the same with almonds.

On a note! A delicious nutritious and tonic drink is obtained by boiling coffee beans and pecans ground together, and then adding orange extract.

In America, pecan pie is popular, without which no holiday is complete. Take note of his classic recipe presented in the video.

About pecan butter

Like any other nut, oil is extracted from pecans. To maximize the preservation of beneficial properties, this is done using the cold pressing method. Pecan butter has a nutty smell and yellow-golden color, and tastes like olive oil.

It is beneficial for the cardiovascular system due to fatty acids, phytosterols, minerals and vitamins. They reduce the level of “bad” cholesterol and increase the content of “good” cholesterol, helping to prevent the development of atherosclerosis.

Pecan oil is added to sauces for fish and meat dishes, seasoned with salads and rice. It goes well with balsamic vinegar. In small quantities (1-2 tsp) taken orally to increase appetite and strengthen the immune system, for colds, chronic fatigue and headaches.

The product is used not only for food purposes:

• Pecan oil is used for massage, face, hair and body masks, and strengthens nails.
• Cosmetic products containing it are usually intended for dry and aging skin.
• With its help, you can quickly cure a wound or subcutaneous hematoma and soothe irritations.
• The product, like coconut oil, protects the skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation and softens it after sunbathing.

To slow down aging and smooth out fine wrinkles, add 1 tsp of pecan butter to a dessert spoon. natural aloe juice (from your own plant or purchased without preservatives or other additives) and essential oils - rosewood, jasmine and ylang-ylang (1 drop each).

Pour the mixture into your palm and lightly massage your face, neck and décolleté for 5 minutes, using stroking and light patting movements. Then pat your skin dry with a soft, dry cloth. Repeat this beauty procedure 1-2 times a week.

Calories, chemical composition

The calorie content of pecans makes them a very nutritious food. 100 g of raw nuts contains:

• 691 kcal (this is a third of the average daily value);
• 9.17 g protein;
• 13.9 g carbohydrates;
• 72 g fat;
• 9.6 g dietary fiber;
• 3.52 g water.

Among the saturated fatty acids in pecans, palmitic acid (4.37 g), stearic acid (1.75 g) and very little arachidonic acid are present. Of the monounsaturated ones - oleic (40 g), gadoleic (little), and of the polyunsaturated ones - linoleic (20.63 g) and linolenic (0.99 g).
The protein composition is represented by amino acids, of which the most are arginine, aspartic and glutamic acid, phenylalanine with tyrosine, glycine and serine. There is little starch, glucose and fructose; the carbohydrate part consists mainly of dietary fiber and sucrose.

The chemical composition of the pecan nut is rich in vitamins, among which E (tocopherol) predominates. Also contains vitamins A and C, K, B-complex (B1, B2, B5, B6, folate, choline, niacin). Pecans boast a range of macro- and microelements. For example, the amount of manganese and copper in 100 g of nuts exceeds the daily requirement for these elements, and phosphorus, magnesium and zinc exceed a third of it. It also contains potassium, calcium, iron, and selenium.

Pecans have no cholesterol and contain phytosterols (34% of the daily value). You can familiarize yourself with the detailed composition of nuts in the form of diagrams and tables.

Pecan nut: benefits and harm to the body

Due to their composition, pecans bring many benefits to the body, but of course, with moderate consumption.

Heart and blood vessels

Unsaturated acids and phytosterols contribute to the formation of “good” cholesterol and the reduction of “bad” cholesterol. This directly affects the condition of blood vessels, reducing the risk of atherosclerotic plaques. After all, it is “bad” cholesterol that tends to settle on the walls of blood vessels, narrowing the lumen over time and leading to atherosclerosis.

Rejuvenation and cancer prevention

The antioxidant properties of beta-carotene, vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids help slow down cell aging. As a result of oxidative processes in the body, free radicals are formed, which not only disrupt the normal functioning of cells, but also take part in the mechanisms of development of malignant tumors. Antioxidants destroy them, thereby slowing down the aging process and reducing the risk of cancer.

Blood purification

Beta-carotene and lutein in nuts help remove toxins and other foreign substances from the blood. Another useful property is that it increases the production of leukocytes and lymphocytes (within normal limits), whose work is aimed at absorbing and neutralizing infectious agents and foreign particles.

Weight loss

Linoleic acid, which is part of pecans and their oil, improves metabolism, stimulates the breakdown of fats and reduces the rate of their absorption, and therefore “reserve” deposits. But the absorption of proteins, on the contrary, accelerates. This property helps not only to avoid gaining extra pounds, but also to quickly gain muscle mass, if necessary. Many of those who are interested in bodybuilding take linoleic acid to accelerate fat burning.

Pecans in reasonable quantities are useful to replace higher-calorie sweets - chocolate, candies, cakes. Drink tea without sugar (green, mate, matcha, oolong, etc.) with dried fruits and nuts, and you will notice that your energy will increase, and the extra centimeters will gradually begin to decrease.

Strengthening Bones

Due to the high content of phosphorus and calcium, pecans help high-quality renewal of bone tissue and strengthen teeth. Moderate but regular consumption of these nuts prevents pain and muscle cramps.

Other properties

Let's list some other benefits of pecans:

• restores strength in case of overwork, weakening of the body after illness;
• reduces the likelihood of vitamin deficiency;
• has a beneficial effect on vision, as it contains beta-carotene;
• enhances libido;
• reduces the risk of developing varicose veins;
• increases appetite;
• normalizes blood pressure.

Helpful advice! If your child is over 3 years old and has a poor appetite, give him a pecan or two. In addition, it will be an excellent nutritional, vitamin and energy recharge for your fidget.

Possible harm

Contraindications for consuming pecans:

• severe liver pathologies;
• pregnancy (due to the child's potential allergic reaction);
• children under 3 years of age;
• obesity;
• individual intolerance to the product.

For dermatitis and other skin diseases, pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract and constipation, the consumption of nuts should be kept to a minimum.

Any product can bring both benefit and harm, it all depends on the quantity. If you eat pecans often and in large quantities, you may experience weight gain, especially if you eat them with meat or dairy products. Overeating is also harmful because nut butter can cause nausea and discomfort in the stomach and intestines.

Benefits for men

The first property of the pecan nut for men is its high energy and nutritional value. For example, 400 g of product completely covers the daily need for calories and many nutritional compounds and nutrients for an adult with a strong physique. Of course, you won’t be able to eat such a quantity of nuts, and there’s no need to, because combined with other foods, even 50 g of pecans is a very valuable addition to the diet. Especially if you have to do heavy physical labor.

Another beneficial properties of pecans are due to the gamma-tocopherol content in it. Scientists have discovered the antitumor properties of this substance. In particular, this was confirmed by clinical studies conducted during the treatment of prostate cancer.

Beneficial properties of pecans for women

What are the benefits of pecans for the fairer sex? First of all, this is the effect of linoleic acid, which helps to normalize the production of hormones, as well as reduce inflammatory processes in the body. Therefore, pecan oil or nuts are also useful for chronic inflammation of the female genital area and other organs.

Eating pecans is good for beauty, as vitamins, microelements and fatty acids strengthen hair, nails, and nourish dry, tired and aging skin. Nuts restore strength faster when tired, and also reduce the risk of breast cancer, etc.

What else are the benefits of nuts for women? The fact is that they strengthen bone tissue, which is especially important during the postmenopausal period. Changes in hormonal levels after 45-50 years lead to bones becoming fragile. Phosphorus and calcium reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

How to select and store

It is better to buy pecans unshelled, especially if you are stocking up for a long time. Such nuts will never be rancid or wormy. If you decide to purchase kernels without shells, then choose only whole ones, not broken ones, and the smell should be pure nutty without a hint of bitterness.

Ideally, you should keep nuts in the refrigerator or even the freezer. In the first case, peeled pecans can be stored for 2-3 months, and whole ones for up to six months. In the freezer, a nut without a shell will last for about 9 months without loss of taste and nutritional properties, and in a shell – up to two years.

If you're a vegetarian or vegan, take the time to make these maple syrup puff pastries with pecan topping. This is delicious!