Go Nuts for Nuts

Here is some information about the two varieties of Pennsylvania produced nuts:

• Pecans: This native American tree nut is a member of the hickory family. Long before the arrival of the Europeans to the New World, pecans were an important food in the diet of the Indian tribes of the central and southern regions of the United States. Two famous people partial to pecans were George Washington, who frequently carried them in his pockets, and Thomas Jefferson, who dedicated part of his time to their cultivation.
• Walnuts: Consumed since prehistoric times, the walnut has various origins: East Asia, Southeastern Europe, North and South America. There exist more than 15 varieties of walnuts, but the two most popular are the English (also called Persian) walnut and the Black walnut. A close relative is the butternut, also referred to as the white walnut.

  The oils in walnut kernels will turn rancid if nuts are stored improperly. After the kernels have been removed, place them in a plastic bag and store in the freezer. The nut meats will keep almost indefinitely when stored in the freezer. Kernels can be stored for short periods in the refrigerator.

Anytime Walnut Granola

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup whole-bran cereal
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/2 cup raisins

In a medium bowl mix well all ingredients except raisins. Spread in jelly‐roll pan or large baking pan. Bake in preheated 325 degree oven, stirring twice, 20 to 25 minutes or until golden. Remove from oven; stir in raisins. Cool in pan on rack. Refrigerate in airtight containers up to 2 weeks; freeze for longer storage.

Serves 4. Each 1/2 cup serving 256 calories, 6 g protein, 44 g carbohydrate, 11 g fat

Source: Great 88 Beat of Ag Progress Days Recipes, Penn State Extension, 2011

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