Pistachios
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National Pistachio Day: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Pistachios

In this, the age of social media, everything seems to have a national day worth celebrating. More often than not, these days aren't worth much attention, but today is National Pistachio Day and these delicious nuts – known fondly as green gold – deserve a bit of spotlight. 

If you're a lover of this nutritious snack, you might be interested to know that our food tour of South East Sicily includes a visit to the famous Bronte Pistachio Festival. The small village of Bronte, located on the western side of Mount Etna, is renowned for growing the world's best thanks to its volcanic soil and climate. If you're a fan of pistachios, you'll want to visit this annual event. Anticipate food stands where every recipe includes pistachio, treat yourself to some refreshing gelato topped with the crushed variety or indulge in a green-tinged cannoli, whose cream is infused with this delicacy. 

To book a place on this tour, just click here now or call our team on 01453 823328 for more information. 

Five Things You Probably Didn't Know About Pistachios:

1) Pistachios are mentioned in the Bible

According to holy scripture, pistachios were brought to Earth by Adam and grew in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 43:11). It may, then, come as no surprise that pistachios are considered to be one of the oldest flowering trees in existence, with people having snacked on this fantastic nut for around 9,000 years.

2) They have a surprising family tree

The humble pistachio is closely related to the mango as well as the spice sumac. Both mangoes and pistachios come from the evergreen tree family, and there's another unexpected relation that comes in the unlikely form of poison ivy!

3) The sound of a cracking pistachio shell is considered to be good luck

In the Middle East, hearing the crack of a pistachio shell opening is thought to be a good omen, especially for happy relationships. According to legend, couples would meet beneath pistachio trees and await the sound, which – when heard – would confirm their compatibility. 

4) They contain a fantastic amount of copper

If you consume 100g of pistachios, you'll get 144% of your daily recommended dose of copper, which is required in neurotransmission, metabolism and red blood cell consumption. They're also an excellent source of vitamin E, which helps maintain healthy skin and eyes.

5) People in India believe pistachios can warm you from within

In India, the pistachio is known as the "hot nut", with people eating them during the coldest parts of the year because they're thought to warm you from inside - heating up both the soul and body. They're also eaten during Diwali to symbolise good wishes and love. 

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National Pistachio Day: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Pistachios was published on 26 February 2019