Pic Today 10/16/11

MISSOURI PECANS:

A HARD NUT TO CRACK

Pecans are species of the American hickory nut,

and a major crop in Missouri.

As pecan nuts split open (in October),

they fall to the ground.

If the squirrels and deer don't beat you to it,

pecans are easily collected beneath the tree.

The outer husk is easily removed

revealing the hard inner pecan shell.

(Local indians used rocks to smash these nuts open.)

Delicious pecan "meats" are a good source

of protein, and rich in omega-6 fatty acids.

And fresh baked pecan pies are a delicious treat.

(And yes, I ate that first slice of pie.)

YUM!