Braised Parsnips with Maple Syrup and Pecans

Pecans are such an amazingly versatile nut. People tend to think of them as strictly a holiday baking nut but this BraisedParsnips with Maple Pecans tells a whole diffent story. 

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1/2 cup Pecan Halves

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin seeds, lightly crushed

1/4 teaspoon ground coriander seeds

1/2 cup maple syrup

8 medium parsnips, ends trimmed and thoroughly peeled and cut in half lengthwise, about 2 pounds

2-3 cups water

1/4 tablespoon salt

Directions

Heat butter a small saucepan over medium-high heat. When the butter melts and starts to get brown, add the pecans, cumin and coriander. Stir the pecans and “toast” them with the spices for a minute. Remove the pecans from the pan and set aside. Add the maple syrup and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes; remove from heat and set aside.

Place the parsnips in a large skillet and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook the parsnips 15 to 20 minutes or until the parsnips are tender when pierced with the tip of a knife. Note: I often find recipes don’t give me enough liquid to work with. Parsnips can vary in size so feel free to add a splash of water to finish the cooking process, if needed. Drain off any remaining liquid. Sprinkle the parsnips with salt and toss with reserved maple syrup mixture and seasoned pecans. Serve immediately.
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