Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Trout Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 large egg
• 4 (4-ounce) rainbow trout fillets, thawed if frozen, skinned if desired
• 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400F (200C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the pecans, rosemary, and salt.
3. In a second shallow dish, add the flour.
4. In a third shallow dish, lightly beat the egg.
5. Dip one side of each fillet into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip the floured side into the egg, followed by pressing it gently into the pecan mixture to coat.
6. Arrange the coated fillets, with the pecan side facing up, on a piece of parchment paper. If needed, cook the fillets in batches.
7. Transfer the parchment with the fillets into the air fryer basket. Cook for 7-8 minutes, or until the fish easily flakes with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145F (62C).
8. Once cooked, drizzle the fillets with maple syrup and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	383
Total Fat	24g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	130mg
Sodium	359mg
Total Carbohydrate	8g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	34g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	90mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	631mg

The Story Behind Pecan Crusted Trout

The pecan crusted trout has its roots in American Southern cuisine, where pecans are abundant and trout is a staple in freshwater rivers. Originally, this dish emerged as a way to combine the natural sweetness and crunch of pecans with the delicate flavor of trout, creating a balance of textures and tastes that quickly gained popularity. The use of an air fryer in modern recipes is a contemporary twist, making the dish quicker and healthier without compromising its signature crispiness.

Regional Variations and Features

This dish is especially popular in the Southern United States, including states like Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi, where pecans are a local crop. In some regions, cooks add a touch of honey or maple syrup to enhance the nutty sweetness, while others may incorporate local herbs such as thyme or sage. The crust itself can vary, with some using crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs as a substitute for pecans, giving a lighter, less buttery finish.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While pecan crusted trout shares similarities with other nut-crusted fish, it stands out due to the choice of trout, which has a more delicate flavor than salmon or tilapia. The combination of pecans and maple syrup provides a distinct sweet-savory profile, unlike almond-crusted or breadcrumb-crusted fish, which lean more neutral. Additionally, cooking in an air fryer instead of traditional baking or frying allows for a crisp coating without excess oil, setting it apart in terms of texture and healthiness.

Where It Is Typically Served

Pecan crusted trout is commonly served as a dinner entree, often accompanied by seasonal vegetables, rice, or roasted potatoes. In Southern restaurants, it is frequently presented as a featured dish for special occasions or weekend dinners. Home cooks also enjoy it as a quick yet elegant weekday meal thanks to the efficiency of the air fryer method, making it a versatile option for both casual and formal dining.

Interesting Facts About Pecan Crusted Trout

• Pecans are native to North America and were a staple in Native American diets long before European settlers arrived.
• Trout is considered a lean fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice for heart health.
• The combination of nuts and fish has been shown to enhance flavor through a contrast of textures: crunchy exterior and tender interior.
• Using an air fryer reduces cooking time by nearly half compared to traditional oven baking while keeping the crust crisp and flavorful.
• Some chefs recommend lightly toasting the pecans before using them in the crust to deepen their flavor and add an aromatic element.

FAQ about Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Trout Recipe

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