Pistachio – Pistachios are the Christmas Nut. In my home growing up, the only time we ever saw the pistachio was at Christmas time. It was always exciting to see the special treat, and the many sweet and delightful combinations of treats made with them. They are said to bring good luck to the holiday.
Why Pistachio
This special nut was originally associated with the Middle East, but in recent history became known for the Italian mob. Mostly due to the profitability. There have even been towns in Italy that had police helicopters hover over the plantations during the harvest, to protect from looters.
Christmas Nut
The traditions originally started with the pagans, but to save you time, we will not look that far back into history. But it is common knowledge that the European Christians picked up on the tradition. The practice goes back to the beginning of St Nicolas, who moved on to become Santa Clause.
In the Netherlands the during Christmas the “lucky” children would have the nuts left in their shoes. Later in most of Europe Santa was known to form bring all kinds of tasty lavation like oranges and other exotic fruits. Pistachios were always at the center of tasty treats.
The Christmas Nut, Pistachio became known for the holidays were folded into Christmas It is thought that the three parts of the nut—the shell, skin, and kernel represents the holy trinity or the bones, skin, and soul of the Savior himself. Thus, becoming known as lucky.
Even the Egyptians got into the act, thinking that a good or great harvest represented a plentiful crop of babies the next year. Making the nut lucky and productive.
In Conclusion
Regardless of the history, I know that Christmas would not be Christmas at my house without the wonderful delicate delight. If you are ready to indulge in the extravagance of this tasty treat, stop by the Nut Garden and pick up a bag or two for yourself.
The store is located at 13863 So 2700 W, Unit 204, Bluffdale Utah, 84065. Or call 801.860.0336
For more information contact us here. You may also learn more about the nut called The Heart of the Desert here.
FAQs
The Christmas Nut, Pistachio became known for the holidays were folded into Christmas It is thought that the three parts of the nut—the shell, skin, and kernel represents the holy trinity or the bones, skin, and soul of the Savior himself. Thus, becoming known as lucky.
Why is the pistachio called the happy nut? ›
Pistachio is named the "happy nut" because the appearance of the cracking nut looks like its smiling. During the Chinese New Year, pistachios are commonly given as presents.It symbolizes health, happiness and fortune.
What are the traditional nuts for Christmas? ›
Receiving a handful of walnuts, hazelnuts or almonds was a coveted gift, symbolic of prosperity and good luck. Over time, this tradition has continued, with nuts becoming a staple of our Christmas fare.
Is pistachio the nut of royalty? ›
Pistachios took on great significance in the ancient Near East where they were preferred by royalty. The Queen of Sheba, a kingdom now part of Yemen and Ethiopia, legendarily reserved pistachios only for royalty to eat.
What do pistachios symbolize? ›
Symbolism: In many cultures, pistachios are seen as the symbol of health, happiness, and good luck. They are often given as gifts during holidays and special occasions. In China, they call them the “happy nut”.
Why are pistachios associated with Christmas? ›
The Christmas Nut, Pistachio became known for the holidays were folded into Christmas It is thought that the three parts of the nut—the shell, skin, and kernel represents the holy trinity or the bones, skin, and soul of the Savior himself. Thus, becoming known as lucky.
What are the only two nuts mentioned in the Bible? ›
Only two kinds of nuts are mentioned in the Bible—almonds and pistachio nuts. In Genesis 43:11, we are told that these products were among the best products of the land. Israel, attempted to use these products as a “gift” and as leverage to save Benjamin, “the child of his heart.”
What does pistachio mean in the Bible? ›
Pistachios are mentioned in the Old Testament (Genesis 43:11). In Persia (modern day Iran), pistachio trade and ownership of pistachio groves meant riches and high status. Legend has it that pistachios were a favorite of the Queen of Sheba, who demanded all her land's production for herself and her court.
Why did they stop dying pistachios? ›
Red pistachios starting disappearing in the '80s, Matoian confirmed. With the limit on imports and the increase of American grown nuts with American harvesting systems, there became no need to dye the nuts.
What is the mythology of pistachios? ›
Legend has it that the Queen of Sheba decreed pistachios an exclusively royal food, going so far as to forbid commoners from growing the nut for personal use. Nebuchadnezzar, the ancient king of Babylon, had pistachio trees planted in his fabled hanging gardens.
Pistachios are a very nutritious food. They offer several health benefits, especially for the heart, gut, and waistline. Regularly eating pistachios may help improve health and wellbeing. But people should stick to plain, unsalted pistachio nuts in their shells and avoid eating more than 1 oz a day.
How many pistachios a day is ok? ›
And even though they have health benefits, it's always a good idea not to overdo it. About a handful (1.5 ounces) is a good amount to shoot for each day. If you're concerned about limiting your pistachio intake, go for the kind that have shells on them instead of the pre-shelled ones.
Why do men eat pistachios? ›
The vitamin E in pistachios helps improve the function of the male sex organ and reduces how much estrogen the male body produces. Pistachios are also popular among men as they can help increase sperm count. Pistachios contain a healthy amount of L-arginine, which the body uses to create nitric oxide.
What is the meaning of happy nut? ›
Look for the pistachios with the shells cracked open, revealing the nut within. This feature is unique to the pistachio and is why people in the Middle East refer to the pistachio as the “smiling pistachio” and the Chinese call it the “happy nut.” Closed-shelled pistachios are immature and may taste bitter.
Which nut is known as smiling nut? ›
Pistachios are also known as the 'smiling' or 'happy nut' due to their hard casing that forms a smiley face when split open.
Why are pistachios called the skinny nut? ›
Pistachios have been called the 'skinny nut' because they are one of the lowest calorie, lowest fat and highest fiber nuts.
What do pistachios represent in the Bible? ›
Pistachios are mentioned in the Old Testament (Genesis 43:11). In Persia (modern day Iran), pistachio trade and ownership of pistachio groves meant riches and high status. Legend has it that pistachios were a favorite of the Queen of Sheba, who demanded all her land's production for herself and her court.
