What is Pistachio?

Iran is a land of contrasts, from the ancient ruins of Persepolis and the bustling metropolis of Tehran to the snow-capped peaks of the Alborz Mountains and the lush forests of the Caspian Sea. And, in the heart of this diverse country, lies a treasure that has been enjoyed for centuries – pistachios. The exact origin of pistachios is unknown, but they are believed to have been cultivated in the Middle East and Central Asia for thousands of years. The first written records of pistachios date back to the 14th century BC, and they have been mentioned in the Bible, the Quran, and the writings of ancient Greek and Roman philosophers.

Pistachios are the edible seeds of the pistachio tree (Pistacia vera), a member of the cashew family (Anacardiaceae). They are oval-shaped and have a pale green color when ripe. Pistachios have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and are often consumed as a snack or added to desserts, salads, and savory dishes.

Iranian poets and literary figures have also referred to pistachio nuts in their works. For Iranians, no festivities and feasts can be held without pistachio nuts as well as other nuts like walnuts, almonds, raisins, hazelnuts, etc. They celebrate the Iranian New Year by eating pistachios. If they cook special dishes, they decorate them with pistachios. Even treats such as ‘Gaz’ contain pistachios. Pistachio nuts are of strategic importance among Iranian producers of agro products.

Iranian Pistachio

Iran is the world’s leading producer of pistachios, accounting for about 80% of global production. Pistachios are grown in the mountainous regions of Iran, where the climate is ideal for their cultivation. The main pistachio-producing provinces in Iran are Kerman, Yazd, and Khorasan Razavi.

This abundance of pistachios, coupled with Iran’s unique soil and climate, has resulted in Iranian pistachios being widely recognized for their superior quality, flavor, and nutritional value. While other countries, such as the United States, Turkey, and China, also produce pistachios, Iranian pistachios stand out due to their unique characteristics:

Larger Size: Iranian pistachios are typically larger and plumper than pistachios from other countries, making them more visually appealing and flavorful.

Brighter Green Color: Iranian pistachios possess a vibrant green hue, indicating higher levels of chlorophyll, a nutrient essential for photosynthesis and overall plant health. This vibrant color also contributes to the pistachio’s rich flavor.

Rich, Buttery Flavor: Iranian pistachios are renowned for their rich, buttery flavor, a result of their unique growing conditions and careful harvesting practices. This distinct flavor sets them apart from pistachios from other countries.

Nutritional Superiority: Iranian pistachios are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Studies have shown that Iranian pistachios have higher levels of antioxidants and lutein compared to pistachios from other countries.

Sustainable Practices: Iranian pistachio production is characterized by sustainable practices that prioritize environmental protection and social responsibility. Iranian pistachio farms utilize advanced irrigation techniques to conserve water, and they employ eco-friendly pest control methods.

Demand for Iranian Pistachios: Due to their exceptional quality, flavor, and nutritional benefits, Iranian pistachios are highly sought after worldwide. They are a popular ingredient in gourmet dishes, and they are increasingly being incorporated into snacks and health food products.

Iranian Pistachio types

There are two main types of pistachios: the Iranian type, which is considered to be the best quality, and the American type. Iranian pistachios are typically larger, rounder, and have a brighter green color than American pistachios. They are also more flavorful and have a lower moisture content. Iranian pistachios include many local names and each name represent a region’s shape or quality type. However, in terms of shapes, there are four main groups. Long, Jumbo, Round and Kernel Pistachio, and green-skinned pistachios.

Iranian Long Pistachios

The most famous local brands of Iranian long pistachios are as follows:Iranian long pistachios – Akbari

Akbari: Akbari pistachios are the largest and most prized type of Iranian pistachio. They are characterized by their elongated, almond-shaped form and vibrant green color. Akbari pistachios are known for their rich, buttery flavor and smooth, delicate skin.
Momtaz: Momtaz pistachios are a premium grade of Iranian pistachios that are known for their exceptional quality, flavor, and appearance. They are typically larger and rounder than other Iranian pistachio varieties, with a vibrant green color and a rich, buttery flavor. Momtaz pistachios are also prized for their smooth, delicate skin and their low moisture content, which contributes to their shelf life and overall quality. Momtaz pistachios are larger and rounder than other Iranian pistachio varieties, typically measuring 28-34mm in length.
Badami; Badami pistachios are similar in appearance to Akbari pistachios but have a slightly elongated shape and a slightly sharper, peppery flavor. They are often used in salted or roasted forms for snacking.
Ahmad Aghaei: Ahmad Aghaei pistachios are another popular variety, renowned for their medium size and elongated shape. They have a slightly darker green hue than Akbari pistachios and possess a slightly sweeter, tangier flavor. Ahmad Aghaei pistachios are often used in culinary applications, adding a unique flavor to desserts, salads, and savory dishes.

Available sizes of Iranian Long Pistachio are 20/22, 22-24, and 24/26, with 18/20 also available in small quantities. The pistachio size unit is the number of nuts in Once.

Iranian Jumbo Pistachios

Kaleh Qouchi: Kalleh Ghouchi pistachios are the largest pistachio variety, often referred to as “jumbo” pistachios. They are elongated and have a slightly curved shape. Kalleh Ghouchi pistachios have a deep green color and a rich, buttery flavor. They are considered a luxury pistachio and are often used as a garnish or in high-end confections.

On the whole Kalleh Ghouchi is not being budded anymore and production is from existing trees. Although commercially quite successful, Kalleh Ghouchi trees showed a steep drop in growth and production as they grew older than 40 years old. It is expected that the production would slowly decline.

Available sizes are 20/22, 22/24, and 24/26, with 18/20 being available in small quantities.

Iranian Round Pistachios

Fandoghi: Fandoghi pistachios are smaller than Akbari and Ahmad Aghaei pistachios, with a round to oval shape. They have a pale green color and a slightly bitter, nutty flavor. Fandoghi pistachios are often used in salted or roasted forms, making them a popular snack option.

It comes in the following sizes 28/30, 30/32 and 32/34 nuts per ounce. Size 26/28 is also available in small quantities.

Kernel Pistachio and green skinned pistachios

This type of pistachio has green color which is used in the food industry. Commonly used to color and flavor ice cream, chocolate, or cake.

There are many ways to enjoy pistachios. They can be eaten raw, roasted, salted, or in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Pistachios can also be used to make milk, butter, and oil.

Origiran: Your Source for Authentic Iranian Pistachios

Origiran is your source for authentic Iranian pistachios. We offer a variety of pistachio products, including raw pistachios, roasted pistachios, pistachio butter, and pistachio milk. Our pistachios are sourced directly from Iranian farmers and are of the highest quality.

Order your pistachios from Origiran today and experience the rich flavor and exceptional quality of Iranian pistachios.