What is a pinon?

Pinons, also spelled piñons or pinyons, are a type of pine tree native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, known for producing edible pine nuts. These trees are valued for their hardiness in arid climates and are an important part of regional ecosystems and cultures. The nuts harvested from pinon trees are used in cooking and are a traditional food source for many Indigenous peoples. In addition to their culinary use, pinon wood is often used for firewood because of its pleasant aroma when burned.