Around and About
Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata) is a common, although not abundant, tree of the mid and low slope habitats of Foster. It is easily recognized all seasons of the year by the bark which separates into long shaggy strips. Leaves are compound, usually with five leaflets. Shagbarks produce a crop of sweet nuts in September.
Shagbark Hickory at Borders Farm, Foster, RI
Click the picture for a larger version | Wild Rice Salad with Toasted Hickory Nuts
This makes 6 servings. |
Shagbark hickory nuts at Borders Farm, Foster, RI
Click the picture for a larger version | Hickory-Nut Date Cookies
In a separate bowl, cream together 1/2 cup butter and 1 cup brown sugar. Add one egg and 1/4 cup buttermilk to the butter and sugar mix. Add one cup hickory nut meats and 1 cup chopped dates. Stir only until all ingredients are just incorporated. Drop onto lightly greased cookie sheets and bake in a 375 oven for 10-12 minutes. |
* If you only have the stamina, or time, to pick out a few hickory nutmeats, then eat them out of hand, add to oatmeal or granola, toss into pumpkin bread or even plum cake.