PISTACHIOS

The Turkish Pistachio (Antep nuts) is a bit harder to open than the ajar plumper California pistachio. The small size and hard-to-open shell is protecting a meatier, richer tasting nut.

It´s uncertain where pistachio nut trees originated, but possibly in Central Asia. Growing pistachio trees commercially for nut export occurs primarily in Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Italy and Syria where the arid climate is optimal for growth.

Pistachios are excellent for baking, cooking, adding to salads, and using as a topping for ice cream and pudding. Their culinary uses are extensive. It can be sued as pistachio paste, pistachio butter, or even pistachio flour.

The shelf life of pistachios is one year.