Storing pecans is the final step in the pecan harvesting process. Plastic containers with good lids or quality sealable freezer bags work well for pecan storage. The more airtight (and less air in the bag) the better. You can keep shelled pecans unrefrigerated in an airtight container for several weeks. They won't taste too good after a while though, especially if the container is left unsealed. The pecans will dry out, shrivel and become tough. If you plan on using them fairly soon it may be best to keep them in the refrigerator, in a sealed container. They can be kept for several months in this manner. For longer term storage, up to a few years, it is recommended shelled pecans be sealed and frozen. We usually keep a large freezer bag of pecans handy throughout the year.
You can just take out the amount you need and put the rest back in the freezer to use later. Make sure you let frozen pecans thaw completely before using them in one of our pecan pie recipes or other pecan recipes. If stored correctly, all of the work and time involved in pecan harvesting will pay off in a year-long supply of great tasting pecans! |