Benne-maple Roasted Pecans

Benne means sesame and is unique to the Carolina’s since the colonial days. Here in South Carolina Benne wafers, a thin, crispy, toasted sesame seed cookie, are very popular. These pecans are slightly sweet, have a hint of salt from the soy sauce, and a sesame flavor from the oil. Very simple and quick to prepare, they are a great addition to your appetizer table. When placed in a pretty jar with a ribbon they could make a great hostess or teacher gift. Make these a few days ahead, and chill in an airtight container. Enjoy!

Benne-Maple Roasted Pecans
1/4 C butter
4 C. pecan halves, toasted
1/4 C. firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 C. maple syrup
1 Tbsp. soy sauce
3/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/8 tsp. ground red pepper
1 Tbsp. sesame oil
2 Tbsp. sesame seeds, toasted

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat; stir in pecans and next 5 ingredients. Cook, stirring constantly, 5 minutes or until syrupy coating on nuts almost evaporates. Stir in sesame oil; remove from heat. Spread pecans in a parchment paper-lined jelly roll pan; sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cool completely.

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