Pecans are the seeds of the hickory tree, a native of northern Mexico and the southern United States that grows along river and stream valleys. Pecans in the wild were a major food source for Native Americans. The word "pecan" is a 16th-century Algonquin word meaning "a nut requiring a stone to crack." And here's another etymological fact for you: "powcohicora" was a fermented drink made from pecans and the origin of the word "hickory"!

The US produces about 80% of the world's pecan supply, primarily grown in Georgia, New Mexico, and Texas. But pecans are only native to Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana.

Commercial pecan growing started in the 1880s. The first US planting was in 1772 in Long Island, NY and they caught on quickly, with George Washington and Thomas Jefferson both caring for specimens in their gardens. The pecan industry grew quickly too with New Orleans as a major market and distribution spot (hence the reason pralines are the city's signature candy).

Albany, GA is the pecan capital of the US - with over 600,000 trees! The town hosts an annual pecan festival with parades, pecan-cooking contests, and a National Pecan Queen.

Pecans are about 70% fat and a good source of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, antioxidants, and dietary minerals. They are higher in fat than most nuts, except macadamias.

April 14th is National Pecan Day.

Want to make at home? Stock up on raw pecans then check out our guide to nut butters!

Suggested Flavor Pairings: chocolate, ginger, cinnamon, maca, nutmeg, coffee