Sugar-Coated Pecans

Ingredients and Weight:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Difficulty Level: 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and salt. Bring to a boil and stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking, without stirring, until the mixture turns into a golden-colored caramel.
Add the pecans and vanilla extract (if using) to the caramel mixture and stir until the pecans are evenly coated.
Spread the coated pecans onto a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until the coating is hard and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 479 per serving (assuming 8 servings total)
Fat: 27 grams
Carbohydrates: 54 grams
Protein: 7 grams
Fiber: 3 grams (Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)

Dish Characteristics:

The dish is a sweet and salty combination that is popular in American cuisine.
The pecans are coated with a sugary caramel that creates a crunchy and delicious outer layer.
It is an excellent snack or can be served as a side dish for any meal.

User Comments:

"These pecans are addictive! The combination of sugar and salt is perfect." - John Doe
"The coating is not too sweet and pairs well with various dishes." - Jane Smith
"My family loved this dish. It's a great way to use up leftover pecans." - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

Be careful not to burn the caramel mixture while cooking. It's best to cook it over medium heat and constantly monitor it.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
If you want to add more flavor, you can experiment with different extracts or spices in the caramel coating, such as almond extract or cinnamon.