Pecan and Goat Cheese: A Delicious and Nutritious Pair

The History of Pecans and Goat Cheese

Pecans and goat cheese have rich histories and traditions behind them. Pecans are a type of nut native to North America and Mexico. They have been a food source for Native Americans for thousands of years. The first commercial pecan orchard was established in the late 1800s in Texas.

Goat cheese also has ancient origins, with evidence of cheesemaking from goats milk dating back over 8,000 years. Goat farming and cheesemaking expanded in Europe during the Roman era. The tangy, crumbly goat cheeses we enjoy today became popular in France during the Middle Ages.

The Rise of Pecan and Goat Cheese Pairings

The delicious combination of pecans and goat cheese has grown in popularity in recent decades. Chefs and home cooks have come to appreciate the contrast of flavors and textures. The sweet, buttery crunch of pecans balances the creamy, tart notes of soft goat cheeses.

Pecan and goat cheese pairings can be found on cheese boards, green salads, stuffed pastas, tarts, and more. Their versatility and complementary flavors make them a go-to duo in appetizers, entrees, and desserts.

Varieties of Pecans and Goat Cheese

Pecan Varieties

There are over 1,000 varieties of pecan trees, but only a handful are grown commercially. The most common types found in stores and recipes are:

• Western Schley - Medium-large nuts with buttery, rich flavor
• Desirable - Smooth, elongated nuts with sweet flavor
• Wichita - Medium-sized nuts with crunch and nutty flavor
• Cape Fear - Large round nuts with sweet, creamy taste

Goat Cheese Types

Goat cheeses come in various textures, ranging from soft and spreadable to firm and crumbly. Popular varieties include:

• Chèvre - Soft, creamy, and tangy fresh goat cheese
• Humboldt Fog - Ash-ripened cheese with vein of edible vegetable ash
• Valençay - Pyramid-shaped aged goat cheese with ash rind
• Aged Gouda - Hard, brownish goat Gouda with crystalline texture

Nutritional Benefits of Pecans and Goat Cheese

Pecans and goat cheese offer nutritional perks that make them a healthy pairing too. Here are some of the top nutrients and benefits found in each:

Pecan Nutrition

• High in healthy fats like oleic acid
• Rich source of vitamin E, an antioxidant
• Contain minerals like manganese, copper, and zinc
• Provide plant-based protein and fiber
• May help lower LDL "bad" cholesterol

Goat Cheese Nutrition

• Packed with calcium for strong bones
• Contains conjugated linoleic acid, a healthy fat
• Offers probiotics for gut health
• Typically lower in fat and calories than cheese from cow's milk
• Easier to digest than cheese made from cow's milk

How to Select and Store Pecans and Goat Cheese

Choosing the Best Pecans

Look for plump pecans with intact shells when buying them in their shells. The shells should not be cracked or stained. Shelled pecans should appear well-filled out and not shriveled. Size is a matter of taste preference, but medium or large nuts tend to be the most flavorful.

Selecting Quality Goat Cheese

Goat cheese is best when fresh, so check expiration dates. Soft goat cheeses like chèvre should have a smooth, creamy texture without any cracks or dry spots. Harder aged goat cheeses will be dry and crumbly when cut. Avoid any cheeses with mold or brown spots.

Storing Pecans and Goat Cheese

To keep pecans fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or the freezer for up to 2 years. Keep soft goat cheeses refrigerated and eat within 1-2 weeks. Harder cheeses will last 2-3 weeks refrigerated or up to several months frozen.

Incorporating Pecans and Goat Cheese in Recipes

Pecans and goat cheese are endlessly versatile ingredients. Here are some tasty ways to use them together or solo in sweet and savory dishes:

Savory Recipes

• Add chopped pecans and crumbled goat cheese to green salads
• Top roasted vegetables with pecans and a goat cheese drizzle
• Fill chicken breasts with goat cheese and pecans
• Mix pecans into whole grain pilafs or rice dishes
• Bake pecans into breads, biscuits, and muffins
• Stuff dates with goat cheese and pecans
• Blend pecans into pesto sauces

Sweet Recipes

• Make maple pecan granola with crumbled goat cheese
• Top tarts and galettes with pecan frangipane and goat cheese
• Fill crepes with pecan-studded butter and goat cheese
• Swirl goat cheese into pecan pie filling before baking
• Fold pecans into goat cheese cheesecake
• Mix candied pecans into honey-drizzled goat cheese

Conclusion

Pecans and goat cheese are natural partners that bring out the best in each other. Their complementary flavors and textures have made the duo popular for snacking, cheese boards, salads, pastas, desserts, and more. With a long history, nutritional benefits, and endless recipe applications, pecans and goat cheese will continue to be staples that pair perfectly together.

FAQs

Are there any health risks from eating pecans or goat cheese?

Pecans and goat cheese are generally safe foods for most healthy adults. The only concerns would be food allergies or intolerances. Tree nuts like pecans are common food allergy triggers. Some people may also be sensitive to proteins found in goat milk.

What is the best way to toast or roast pecans?

Toasting pecans brings out their flavor. Roast them in a single layer on a baking sheet at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, shaking halfway. Watch carefully to avoid burning. You'll know they're done when fragrant and lightly browned.

Can you eat the rind on goat cheeses like Valençay?

The rind or exterior coating on aged goat cheeses like Valençay is entirely edible. The rinds are typically made from ash, wax, or herbs that impart flavor as the cheese ripens. The vegetable ash used is completely safe to eat.

What drinks pair well with pecan and goat cheese dishes?

Pecan and goat cheese flavors complement acidic, fruity drinks. Try pairing them with Pinot Noir or Beaujolais red wines, hard ciders, cranberry juices, or tart cocktails made with citrus juices or vinegars.

Are there good pecan or goat cheese substitutes for recipes?

If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can substitute well. Cashews or pine nuts also work. For goat cheese, alternatives like feta, ricotta, or even cream cheese can fill in depending on the recipe.

With their stellar nutrition, delicious taste, and incredible versatility, pecans and goat cheese make the perfect pairing for any occasion. Whether dressed up for a fancy cheese plate or whipped into a simple salad, this nutty duo deserves a spot in every kitchen.