Instructions: In a medium saucepan, heat the oil to 350 degrees. (A deep-frying thermometer can tell when the proper temperature has been reached. Or use a 1-inch bread cube - it should sizzle and turn golden brown in about 60 seconds when the temperature is correct.)

Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan bring 1 quart of water to a boil. Add the pecans in 2 separate batches, and boil for 2 minutes. Drain in a strainer, shaking off all excess water. Sprinkle the salt and cayenne pepper over the nuts and coat with confectioners" sugar, a little at a time, allowing the sugar to melt into the pecans. Toss the nuts by shaking the strainer, adding a little more sugar each time, until all the sugar is used and the nuts are coated. Do not use hands or a spoon to toss. The nuts should have a glaze of sugar.

Carefully add the nuts to the heated oil, keeping the oil at 350 degrees. Cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon to a baking tray to cool.

This recipe yields 4 servings.

Comments: The nuts have a sweet and spicy taste, a delicious combination. We toss them over green salads, and especially Spinach and Blue Cheese Salad for flavor and texture, but the nuts are almost too good to save just for salads.

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