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Spiced Pecans

Spiced Pecans in a bowl
Photograph by Jessica Pettway, Food Styling by Sue Li, Prop Styling by Sophie Strangio

Pecans are a favorite Southern source of protein for Maricela Vega, the chef at Atlanta restaurant 8ARM and founder of Chicomecóatl, an organization centering the foodways of Indigenous Mexican diaspora. Growing up, she would eat them straight-up raw or lightly toasted, but this is her go-to preparation now: sweet, salty, and coated with freshly ground spices. Eat them by the fistful or sprinkle them liberally on salads or grilled veggies for deep flavor and crunch.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes about 4 cups

Ingredients

1 tsp. fennel seeds
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp. paprika
5 garlic cloves, finely grated
4 cups raw pecan halves
1 Tbsp. grapeseed oil
1 Tbsp. honey, preferably local
2 tsp. Diamond Crystal or 1 tsp. Morton kosher salt

Special Equipment

A spice mill or mortar and pestle

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to 350°. Grind fennel seeds in a spice mill or with a mortar and pestle. Transfer to a medium bowl and mix in coriander, pepper, and paprika. Add garlic, pecans, oil, honey, and salt to spice mixture and toss to coat.

    Step 2

    Spread out pecan mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake, rotating baking sheet and stirring pecans halfway through, until golden brown and toasted all the way through, 13–15 minutes. Let cool.

    Step 3

    Do ahead: Nuts can be made 1 week ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

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