Properly Storing Your Pecans

Pecans are not only delicious, but they also have several health benefits making them one of the best nuts to purchase. When you shop for pecans, you are generally looking for them to be fresh and uniform in both color and size. Unshelled pecans can be stored for up to six months when stored properly and nuts still in the shell can last for as long as a year. So, what is the proper way to store your pecans?

For Maximum Freshness

To maintain maximum freshness, you will want to use sealed plastic bags when storing the pecans in the freezer. When you store them sealed and in the freezer, you are effectively prolonging their shelf life. The best way to freeze pecans for later use is by shelling them prior to freezing them. You can also store them in the refrigerator if you feel that they will be eaten and used a bit sooner. When storing your pecans in the refrigerator, any airtight containers will be sufficient. If you plan on storing them outside of the refrigerator, then you should find a cool and dark place for the pecans. A good place in your kitchen is the pantry, and again, airtight containers or sealed plastic bags are good ways to package the pecans before use and for storing.

Why is it Important to Store Your Pecans Properly?

If you fail to follow the tips above and choose not to store your pecans properly, you risk losing the flavor, texture, and freshness of the pecans. They can also begin to rot and spoil when not properly handled. All this means lost money and lost pecans. Proper storage can also help keep the bugs away from your pecan supply which is essential if you plan on storing them in the pantry.

More Points to Remember

One of the biggest factors to consider when storing your pecans is if they are shelled or not. When it comes time to using your unshelled pecans you had stored, then you simply pop open the shell and take out the pecan. It can then be used in any recipe you have as always. However, if you stored your pecans in the freezer, it is important to thaw them out before using them. Once they are completely thawed, you can continue to use them as you please. Frozen pecans are typically unshelled and require a bit more work before being able to use them in your recipes.