02.14.11

World Pistachio Day Fun Facts – Middle East

By Pistachio Queen

World Pistachio Day is February 26. Want to learn more and educate others about pistachios around the world? Feel free to submit your own fun facts about pistachios in the Middle East.

Cupid’s Pistachios
A story goes that lovers used to meet under pistachio trees on moonlit nights and listen for the cracking of shells, which was considered a sign of a happy relationship.

Saving the Best for Last
In Israel, pistachios are served after a meal in what is known as “Pituchim,” the word for all nuts. Other nuts and seeds served at this time include sunflower seeds and almonds.

Let’s Celebrate the Trees
During Tu B’Shevat festival (‘New Year for Trees’) celebrated in Israel, it is customary to plant trees and eat dried fruits and nuts. During this holiday, which typically falls in February, Israelis purchase an average of 30 to 40 percent more fruits and nuts than at other times of the year.

Pistachio Lovers Unite!
Israel’s seven million people consume nine million pounds of pistachios each year, making it the world’s leading per-capita pistachio consuming country at more than one pound per person.

The Story of Red
In the Middle East, pistachios were often left in their reddish husks and were brined before roasting, giving the shells a pink cast. When pistachios were first introduced in the U.S, processors attempted imitating the color by using red dye. They found that the coloring made the nuts more noticeable in retail displays and decided to make the nuts even redder.

Royal Delicacy
In ancient times in the Middle East, pistachios were considered food for the royal and the rich. Legend has it that fine pistachios were a favorite delicacy of the Queen of Sheba, who confiscated all Assyrian deliveries for herself and her royal court.

Good Night Lullaby
One of Iran’s most popular children’s lullaby is called “Sleep, Sleep Pistachio Flower.”

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