Peach Pecans Recipe
Introduction to Peach Pecans
Peach Pecans is a delightful blend of sweet and nutty flavors that heralds from the traditions of Southern American cuisine, where peaches and pecans are both prolific. This dish is perfect as a dessert or a sweet side dish, bringing the warmth of roasted pecans and the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches to the forefront. Its origins can be traced back to the early settlement days when these ingredients were plentiful in the region. Over time, the recipe has been refined to the sumptuous treat we enjoy today, capturing the essence of Southern hospitality in every bite. Whether served warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as a standalone dessert, Peach Pecans offers a comforting and memorable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- Peach - 4 ripe and juicy
- Pecans - 1 cup, roughly chopped
- Butter - 1/4 cup, melted
- Brown Sugar - 1/2 cup, packed
- Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
- Nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt - a pinch
- Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
- Lemon - juice of half a lemon
Preparation Steps
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step sets the stage for ensuring the perfect bake for our peach and pecans dish.
- While the oven is preheating, carefully wash and slice the peaches. You want to slice them into even segments—aim for about 8-12 slices per peach, depending on their size.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches with the juice from half a lemon. This adds a lovely hint of tartness and helps prevent the peaches from browning.
- Next, incorporate the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the peaches. Stir to make sure the peaches are generously coated with the sugar and spice mixture.
Cooking Process
- Spread your peaches out into a single layer in an oven-safe baking dish. Even distribution ensures even cooking.
- Sprinkle the pecans over the top of the peaches. The nuts will toast as the dish bakes, enhancing their flavor and adding a delightful crunch.
- Mix the melted butter and vanilla extract together, then pour evenly over the peaches and pecans. This mixture complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and the zest of the lemon juice, bringing the dish together.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You can set a cooking timer to ensure you don't overcook them.
- During baking, periodically check the peaches. You'll know they're ready when the fruit is tender, and the pecans have a golden hue.
Serving Suggestions
Once the Peach Pecans are ready, let them cool for a few minutes out of the oven before serving. Their flavor profile is heightened when served warm. Enjoy them as they are, or pair with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. This dish can also complete a brunch spread or serve as a sweet complement to savory dishes.
This dish not only celebrates the natural sweetness of the peach and the richness of pecans but also showcases the beauty of simply-prepared ingredients coming together to create something truly delightful and memorable.