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Pista

Also Known As : Common Pistache, Terebinth Nut, Pistachio Nut, Green Almond, Common Pistachio, Green Almond, Pistacia Nut, Terebinth Nut
Technical Name : Pistacia vera
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Vegetarian

Taste Profile

They have an earthen woody bean flavour.

Usage Tips

  1. It can be consumed on its own. They are also used for garnishing sweet dishes like halwa and that too of the various kinds. They are also used in baking and cooking.
  2. With their unique taste and colouring they are used in salads and appetizers.
  3. It should be stored in an airtight container.

Common names and forms

  1. California Pistachio Roasted & Salted
  2. Chopped Pistachio
  3. Green Pista
  4. Irani Pistachios
  5. Pista Flakes
  6. Pista in Shell
  7. Pista Kernels
  8. Pista paste
  9. Pistachio
  10. Pistachio Bits
  11. Pistachio Kernels
  12. Pistachio Nuts
  13. Pistachios
  14. Pistachios (In Shell)
  15. Premium Exotic Pistachio
  16. Premium Pistachio
  17. Roasted Pistachios
  18. Salted Pistachio Kernels
  19. Salted Pistachios

Description

Pista also known as Pistachio is probably the earliest nuts, which were widely used in the world. They are said to be indigenous to Aisa, specifically in Iraq and Iran. Pistachios were grown in Iraq and Iran, and Syria and were introduced to the Romans somewhere around 100 AD. irrespective of the fact that it was first introduced to the world from Iraq, Iran, and Syria, it is now being manufactured in numerous nations such as the United States, Turkey, Australia, and China and other nations. At present, pistachios happens to be one of the most popular nuts for people of all ages. They are small in size, green in colour, and are available both in shell and without shell. They are grown on trees with naturally tanned shells and the inner kernels are greenish tanned, this is because of the chlorophyll, which is a natural pigment that gives leaves its colour. These pistachios are drought resistant and thrive in full sun, especially in desert areas with long, hot summers. They are ‘alternate-bearing’  trees, which means they produce a heavier crop every alternate year. The different types of pistachios are Turkish pistachios, Australian pistachios.

Health benefits

  • The consumption of pistachio in moderation helps in maintaining a healthy heart. This is due to the fact that it contains monosaturated fats that perform an important role in reducing bad cholesterol, and as we know that low-density lipoprotein is definitely the main cause behind choked arteries that cuts down blood flow to the heart, thereby leading to cardiovascular diseases.  (1)
  • Pistachios are concentrated with various antioxidants that make them very therapeutic for the skin. Thereby, these antioxidants safeguards against harmful sun radiation. The essential oils present in pistachios turn it into a powerful source for curing skin dryness, skin aging as well as skin pigments.  (1)
  • Pistachios are high on carotenoid antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, and these antioxidants help in reducing the very risk of contracting an age-related macular disease in the elderly. (2)
  • Pistachios are rich in copper, hence it helps in the higher absorption of iron into the body from food sources. They help in combating conditions like anemia as the hemoglobin count rises and increases blood flow. (2)

Selection Guide

They are sold in both shelled and unshelled form. When purchasing the nuts in the shell form always look for the blemish-free, ivory-coloured shells that are split open at one end.  The kernel or nutmeat should be yellow to dark green in colour. The greener the nutmeat, the better is the flavour.

Note

Pistachios have fructans that interfere with proper digestion and thereby, results in constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence, and diarrhea. The roasted ones have greater amounts of sodium that elevates blood pressure, hence are not advisable for pregnant women. (3)

Resource & Links

(1)http://https://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/pistachios/

(2)https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/seed-and-nut/health-benefits-of-pistachio.html

(3)http://https://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/pistachios/

 

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"Information here is provided for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice or product or ingredient review/rating. The information may not apply to you and before you use or take any action, you should contact the manufacturer, seller, medical, dietary, fitness or other professional. If you utilize any information provided here, you do so at your own risk and you waive any right against Culinary Communications Private Limited, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees or representatives.”