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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 forMaricela Vega, the chef at Atlanta restaurant8ARMand founder ofChicomecóatl, 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.

Ingredients

Makes about 4 cups

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
  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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