American Pecan Council Doubles Down its Efforts to Break Out of the Pie Shell

American Pecan Council asks fans to #PledgePecans and make one more pecan dish this holiday season in support of America's pecan growers. Image: tseiu, Pixabay

FORT WORTH, Texas -- Millions of Americans are about to dig into delicious pecan pies as Thanksgiving kicks off the biggest consumption period annually for American Pecans. Long relegated to the dessert table, research conducted by the American Pecan Council (APC) last year shows that many people don't think of pecans as a "nut," but only as a baking ingredient1. APC is set to change that, asking Americans to #PledgePecans by adding one more pecan dish—in addition to pecan pie—to their holiday tables.

Also read, Peanuts Match Almonds for Controlling Diabetes, New Study Finds.

On the heels of devastating hurricanes and flooding amidst the 15-state pecan growing region, shellers and growers are coming together for the first time since the industry's "American Pecans, The Original Supernut" April brand launch. In its newest campaign, which launches today, the APC sets out to remind people of pecans' super versatility by sharing a holiday season's worth of recipe inspiration in a first-of-its-kind variety show, The Super American Pecan-A-Thon. 

"This year certainly hasn't been an easy one for agriculture – pecans included," said Alexander Ott, Executive Director of the American Pecan Council. "But our roots run deep, and we're proud to continue to find ways to unite the industry and celebrate the powerful legacy of our growers and shellers. A small change to your family's mealtime traditions, like adding a delicious new pecan-infused side or nutritious pecan appetizer to the menu, will make a big impact on the people behind America's native nut."

The Super American Pecan-A-Thon
Starting today, one of the most popular days of the year for holiday recipe searches online2, the APC is taking to the "digital stage" to cook, craft and share its stories. In partnership with award-winning digital platform and recipe hub Epicurious, the APC's Super American Pecan-A-Thon is an entertaining, out-of-the-pie-shell celebration of America's native nut.

Actress, comedian and self-proclaimed pecan-lover Wendi McLendon-Covey hosts the fun-filled show, alongside American Pecan growers from Georgia, Oklahoma, Texas and California. They are joined by top food and lifestyle tastemakers like cookbook author Jessica Murnane, Bobby Parrish of FlavCity and Amber Kemp-Gerstel of Damask Love who show off the bounty of The Original Supernut. Fans can tune in to discover pecan-fueled appetizers, sides, salads, entrées and desserts, along with festive tabletop décor ideas, like pecan wreaths and ornaments. Digital and social extensions also feature "shoppable" pecan recipes that make it easy for viewers to buy pecans.

#PledgePecans
The APC urges fans to turn the inspiration they uncover during the Pecan-A-Thon into action and #PledgePecans. After viewing the show on americanpecan.com/pledgepecans, fans can simply click or download a new pecan-friendly recipe and add it to their holiday menu. New recipes perfect for holidays (or any day) include:

• Pecan Roasted Beet Dip with Sage: This vegan and gluten-free beet dip is pureed with sage and pecans for a warm, flavorful side you can serve as family gathers for the big meal.
• Sweet Potato Casserole with Bourbon Pecan Crumble: Pecans add a nutritious crunch to this classic fall favorite. Naturally sweet pecans, oats, brown sugar and bourbon (if you'd like) come together in a crumble that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes.
• Pecan Apple Stuffing: Add pecans to this must-have Thanksgiving side dish for a flavorful crunch. Combine delicious pecans with Italian sausage, celery, apples and herbed stuffing for an irresistible version of a classic that will become an instant family favorite.
• Leftover Turkey Chili Topped With Chili-Toasted Pecans: Nothing completes the holidays like turkey leftovers, and few dishes are as quintessential to the winter table as chili. We combined the two with this warming holiday meal that will make you see pecans in a new light (and keep everyone coming back for more).
  

When they #PledgePecans, fans will discover how The Original Supernut is the perfect canvas for mealtime innovation - and feel good knowing that additional pecan dish will support local pecan growers and their families.

Check-out americanpecan.com/pledgepecans today to watch the show or click on a recipe to #PledgePecans. To learn more about the industry and find more inspiration for the uses of pecans, visit AmericanPecan.com or visit @AmericanPecan on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

American Pecans, The Original SupernutTM
Launched in April 2018, American Pecans, The Original SupernutTM is the official brand of the American Pecan Council. Of all the major tree nuts eaten in the U.S., pecans are the only ones indigenous to America. The brand elevates the little-known health benefits of pecans and is rooted in three major reasons why American Pecans are truly The Original Supernut: because they are super versatile, super local and super nutritious. Pecans are extremely nutrient dense and nearly two decades of research document their heart-health benefits3. They are among the highest in "good" monounsaturated fats, and provide plant protein, fiber, flavonoids and essential minerals, including copper, manganese and zinc.

SOURCE American Pecan Council