A nutritious nut with an irresistible flavour, the pistachio is actually a seed kernel grown principally from the Pistacia vera tree. This tree has several cultivars; but, the most common is the kerman, from which the nuts are typically harvested. A member of the cashew family, Anacardiaceae, the pistachio tree is native to Central Asia and the Middle East and grows in the arid, saline soil of the desert. As a desert plant, pistachio trees grow best in hot, dry climates and are harvested between late August and early October.
Health benefits:
- Pistachios are a good source of protein, potassium, copper, and phosphorus.
- Pistachios are a rich source of phytosterols, plant-based compounds that have been proven effective at lowering blood cholesterol levels.
- Pistachios are a good source of amino acids, the building blocks of protein. In particular, pistachios are rich in L-arginine, which is capable of improving blood flow in clogged arteries and is essential for supporting the body’s metabolic processes.
Uses:
- Pistachios are enjoyed for their unique nutty taste, their excellent nutritional value, and their versatility with a wide range of culinary applications for the pistachio all over the world. From snacks and salad toppings to ice creams and other sweet treats like baklava, Turkish delight, and nougat- the nut offers a compelling component for countless dishes thanks to its rich, distinctive taste.
Nutritional information per 100 gr of Pistachios
- Energy: 571kcal
- Protein: 21 g
- Total fat: 46 g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Monounsaturated fat: 24g
- Polyunsaturated fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Calcium: 110 mg
- Iron: 4.20 mg
- Selenium: 9.3 mcg
- Phosporus: 485 mg
- Magnesium: 120 mg
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Potassium: 1042 mg
- Vitamin A: 262IU
- Vitamin B: 1.27 mg
- Vitamin C: 2.3 MG
- Vitamin E: 1.93mg
- Vitamin K: 13.2 mcg