Israel Romero / Friday, February 24, 2023 / Categories: Blog The Pistachio: The Fruit of Love The Pistachio We already know that the pistachio has a significant protein content, its vegetable fat is healthy (cholesterol-free) which makes it recommended for protecting the heart, its high dietary fiber content… but did you know it has aphrodisiac properties? Yes, because of its high zinc content, which is the mineral that helps synthesize sexual hormones. So there's another good reason to enjoy pistachios! The pistachio is an increasingly popular nut; daily consumption is recommended by dietitians and nutritionists in all kinds of healthy diets due to the multiple benefits it provides to the body. Did you know that in some cultures it is known as the happy nut? Below we highlight some pistachio curiosities you may not have known. [caption id="attachment_24541" align="aligncenter" width="800"] The Pistachio: the fruit of love[/caption] Origin of its name. Its name comes from Persian: “Pisteh”, which means wealth and fortune. In ancient Persia, the trade and consumption of pistachios were associated with the nobler social classes and royalty. Legend. Legend has it that when the full moon lit the night in the Middle East, lovers would sit under a pistachio tree to listen to the crack the nut made as it opened. That sound represented a bright future for the couple, as well as the promise of a lifetime of romance and passion. Varieties and types. There are more than 100 varieties of pistachios worldwide, although the most popular is the “Kerman” variety, notable for the whitish color of its shell. Global cultivation. Iran is the world’s leading producer, followed by the United States, Turkey and Syria. Spain has increased the area planted with pistachio trees by more than 60% in the last decade. Longevity. It is considered one of the fruit trees with the longest lifespan: it can produce for more than a hundred years and live for over 300. Maturation time. Pistachio trees need between 5 and 10 years to reach full maturity. [caption id="attachment_24542" align="aligncenter" width="800"] The Pistachio: the fruit of love[/caption] Ways to enjoy. As snacks, in pastries such as ice creams and tarts, and also as seasonings in salads, toppings and dressings. Additionally, in cosmetic and beauty products due to its properties. Happy nut. In some countries it is known as the “happy nut” because the shell opens semi-ajar, revealing a shape that resembles a smile. Pairings. The most recommended pairings are: dark chocolate for its bitterness, citrus fruits like orange or lemon for their intensity, honey for its sweetness, and very sweet fruits such as dates or raisins. World Pistachio Day. World Pistachio Day is celebrated on February 26. Our recommendations Raw Shelled Pistachio, Les Garrigues Aphrodisiaque Rosé Almázcara Majara Pastes Sanmartí: a gourmet tradition since... 1700 Sucralín is the best sugar substitute. Print 2 Rate this article: No rating Please login or register to post comments.