What is Pine Nuts, How Are They Collected?

Pine nuts are among the types of nuts obtained by breaking the hard shells of the cones of the pine tree. This tree, which can grow in places where the Mediterranean climate is dominant, is a pine tree species that can reach 20 meters in height. Cones grown on these trees can bear fruit in 4-5 years, but it takes 20 years to mature. The ripe cones are prepared for eating by breaking the pistachio inside. In our country, its commercial production is mostly done around Aydın, Muğla, İzmir and in our provinces in the Mediterranean Region. Pine nut production is made in significant quantities especially in Aydın province. Even the traditional Pine Nut Festival is held in Aydın.

How to Collect Pine Nuts?

Pine nuts are very easy to grow. The stone pine, which does not need much water, does not need an extra irrigation process except for watering the seedlings when it is first planted, but pruning is important. Pruning is an action that makes the work easier for harvesting. It allows the cones to be collected more easily. The mature cones are collected from the trees. An average of 4 pine cones is 1 kilogram and 150-400 kilograms of cones are collected per day.

Especially the pine nut trees in Aydın is a commercial activity for this region. Pine cones collected by machines and traditional methods are meticulously sorted. The journey of the pine nuts continues with the seeds being separated from the cones and breaking them one by one.

The pine nuts are located in the openings between the pine cones.Pine nut trees, which can live up to 250 years, also vary in their productivity according to their periods. It has been observed that the most productive periods of these trees are between the ages of 25 and 80.

Favorite Nut Types: Pine Nuts - Kunar

It is known that pine nuts, which are among the dried fruit varieties, have a special place in Turkish cuisine. Pine nuts, which are frequently used in meals, desserts, and stuffed foods, are among the nuts known for their flavor. Pine nuts, which are grown in pine cones, are a product that is collected from the cones and brought to our tables. 100 grams of pine nuts contain an average of 14 grams of protein, 60 grams of fat, and 597 grams of potassium. Apart from these, it also contains vitamins and minerals.

Pine nuts, which are frequently used in kitchens; It is often used in stuffed olives, salads, and pilafs. In addition, it is known that pine nuts are consumed fondly in breakfasts, meat dishes, vegetable dishes. The use of pine nuts is common in Turkish food culture. Pine nuts, which are a very tasty nut and are among the dried nuts, are also known as pine nuts and Kunar. It is often used in stuffed olives and wraps. In addition, it is very common to add Kunar when halva is roasted. Pine nut, whose harmony with desserts is already legendary, is also used in Ashura. Its relationship with semolina is impressive. If you prefer to eat oats for your breakfast, adding some pine nuts will greatly affect its taste. Adding some pine nuts to your rice will add a very nice taste. Kunar can also be consumed raw if desired.