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 Asia.
Say “Cheese”
In China, the pistachio is known as the “Happy Nut” because it looks like it is smiling. The name “Happy Nut” is also a nickname for cheerful and optimistic personalities that bring joy and happiness.
Diwali Pleasure
On the occasion of Diwali, which is the Hindu New Year also known as the “Festival of Lights,” Indians give dried fruits and nuts, such as pistachios, to their family and friends as a symbol of love and good wishes.
Prosperity in the New Year
In China, pistachios are given as a gift during Chinese New Year as a symbol of health, happiness, prosperity and good fortune. The pistachios are often packed in a large red box, representing luck and happiness, together with other nuts and small gifts.
Green Mobility
In 1996 Japan car manufacturer Mitsubishi created a fuel efficient car called the “Pistachio.” Mitsubishi decided to name the car after the nut because “the pale green colour and the brittle sound the shell makes when opened conjures up an image of the environment, nature and clean emissions.”
Nut Heater
During the cold winter months, people from India snack heavily on pistachios as they are believed to be a “hot food,” capable of warming the soul.
Sweet Summers
Kulfi is a popular frozen milk-based Indian dessert often described as “traditional Indian ice-cream.” It comes in various flavors, including Pistachio (pista) and avocado.
Herbivore Fans
China’s giant panda has a primarily herbivorous diet consisting mostly of bamboo, but pandas love pistachios as a treat because they are crispy and sweet.
Read more fun facts: Middle East | E. Europe | W. Europe
A deciduous tree (Pistacia vera) of central and western Asia, having pinnately compound leaves and dry, drupaceous, nutlike fruits