Turkish roasted pistachio -500g

Pistachios are a popular tree nut, known for their distinctive greenish-yellow kernel and slightly sweet flavour. They’re often sold dry-roasted and salted, but they can also be used in cooking, baking, and confectionery (like ice cream and baklava).
Here are a few key facts about them:
• Appearance: They grow encased in a hard, beige shell that naturally splits open when the nut inside is ripe. The kernel itself has a purple-red skin and a light green interior.
• Nutrition: Pistachios are a nutrient-dense food. They are a good source of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants. They are also rich in Vitamin \text{B}_6, thiamine, phosphorus, and potassium.
• Origin: They are native to Central Asia and the Middle East, with major producers today including Iran, the United States (especially California), and Turkey.
• Use: Beyond snacking, they are a common ingredient in many global cuisines, adding colour and crunch to dishes.

1. Short-Term Storage (Pantry/Cabinet)
For nuts you plan to eat within a few weeks to a couple of months:
• Container: Always transfer them to an airtight container (like a glass jar with a tight lid or a high-quality food storage container). This keeps out moisture, air, and odors.
• Location: Store in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a pantry or cupboard.
• Avoid: Keep them away from heat sources (oven, stove) and direct sunlight, as heat quickly turns the oils rancid.
• Shelf Life: In-shell pistachios: about 6 months. Shelled kernels: about 3 months.

2. Medium-Term Storage (Refrigerator)
If you have more than a few months’ supply, the refrigerator is the best choice:
• Container: Use an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Benefit: The cooler temperature significantly slows down the rancidity process, preserving their fresh flavor and crunch.
• Avoid: Keep them away from strong-smelling foods (like onions or garlic), as nuts can absorb odors.
• Shelf Life: Both in-shell and shelled pistachios can stay fresh for up to 1 year in the fridge.

3. Long-Term Storage (Freezer)
For maximum freshness, especially if you bought a large quantity:
• Container: Use an airtight, freezer-safe container or vacuum-sealed bag.
• Benefit: This is the best way to keep them fresh for a year or more.
• To Use: When you want to eat them, allow the container to thaw completely at room temperature before opening it. This prevents condensation from forming on the nuts, which would make them lose their crunch. You can then put the rest back in the freezer.
• Shelf Life: In-shell pistachios: up to 2 years. Shelled kernels: up to 1 year.

How to Tell If They’ve Gone Bad

The healthy oils in the nuts will eventually go rancid. You can usually tell:
• Smell: They will smell like paint thinner or old oil, or just generally sour/unpleasant.
• Taste: They will have a bitter or stale, chemical taste.