Most of us love drowning our waffles, pancakes and French toast in pecan syrup, but how much do we know about its main ingredient; the pecan nut, besides that it tastes great? The pecan tree is a part of the hickory family; the word hickory originating from the Greek word ‘kary’ meaning nut.  It is indigenous to the south eastern regions of North America, and not only are the nuts fabulous, but the pecan tree is also used to make furniture and tools. And these trees can live for an astounding three hundred years! That’s enough pecan syrup for at least five generations!

Pecan nuts are a great source of protein and unsaturated fats. It has also been said that they reduce cholesterol levels. So don’t feel guilty the next time you soak your food in a thick pecan syrup! Most people use a combination of maple syrup, pecans and cinnamon to make the syrup, and the cinnamon is especially great with pancakes. Alternatively, maple flavouring together with sugar, water and butter can be used which is great on waffles!

And you don’t have to stop at pecan syrup. Pecan nuts also make a great cocktail when added to Frangelico hazelnut liqueur and vanilla ice-cream. And for those lucky few who seem to lack a sweet tooth and for who the thought of pecan syrup might be the source of a dangerous sugar rush, there are many savoury recipes that include pecan nuts. There is always the savoury pecan loaf and pecan stir fry and pecan syrup is also great over that holiday ham! Numerous other recipes can be seen at www.peytonspecans.com, and if you’re convinced, you can order a package of natural pecans or pecan syrup at the same time!

At Peyton’s Pecan Orchard, you can get the exact pecans that you’re looking for. If it’s just the traditional nuts you’re after, they come as natural halves, natural pieces and for the ultra traditionalists you can get the in-shell pecans. And for the more adventurous they have a great selection from gourmet chocolate-covered pecans to pecan brittle to roasted pecan syrup.

And if you’re shopping experience is not merely deservedly self-indulgent, why not use the gift box builder at www.peytonspecans.com and use their service to send your favourite pecans to a loved one? With the gift box service you can pick the items of your choice, and you aren’t limited to pecans and syrup, Peyton’s Pecan Orchard also has a great selection of jellies and jams, as well as coffee and pecan oils.

So they next time you have a pecan craving, know that pecan syrup on that waffle is only the beginning of a large variety of products. And if the prospect of hunting it down in the busy supermarket aisle is all too frustrating, visit Peyton’s Pecan Orchard online and order away!