Pili Nuts: The Superfood You Probably Haven’t Tried Yet

When you hear of superfood, the first thing that may come into your mind may be chia seeds, acai, and flax seeds. However, there’s a superfood you can’t usually find in your local grocery store that’s gaining traction all over the world. Learn more about Pili nuts and why you should stock it in your pantry. The whole family surely can’t get enough of it.

What are Pili Nuts?

Pili nuts, pronounced at “peel-ey,” are a nutritional powerhouse in their own right. Although not as popular and easy to get like almonds, walnuts, and cashews in the West, it doesn’t mean you should not take notice of it. This food is a well-known source of protein, minerals, and quality fats that the body needs to sustain energy, improve heart health, support the immune system, and maintain gut function.

This nut is native to Southeast Asian countries like the Philippines. However, it can also be found in Papua New Guinea and northern Australia. The nut comes from the evergreen tree or Canarium Ovatum which is part of the same family as myrrh and frankincense. The majority of the tree parts are edible including the fruit pulp. The young shoots can also be eaten.

Why Buy Pili Nuts?

It’s no secret that nuts are some of the most delicious and healthy snacks to munch on. There’s no reason to skip buying pili nuts especially for health buffs who want to explore other protein options. This energy booster may have a high-calorie count at 650 calories per cup, but it’s something you can simply moderate. 

These yummy and nutrient-dense treats are a great source of amino acids and contain high amounts of magnesium compared to other nuts. A single serving will help you achieve your recommended daily copper and magnesium intake. Not only that, it’s also a must-have for people who have inflammation issues. Since inflammation can trigger dangerous diseases such as heart failures and cancer, it should be a priority to eliminate it.

What Does It Taste Like?

When you taste raw pili nut, you’ll first notice that its flavor is quite similar to pumpkin seeds, albeit quite stronger. Roasted pili nuts have almost the same consistency and taste like pine nuts and macadamia. This is why many farmers who are on the frontline of its production suggest it to be added in chocolate, trail mix, baked goods like cookies, and other sweets such as ice cream.

If you like experimenting in the kitchen, try swapping pine nuts with Pili. It adds an interesting texture and flavor element to any dessert or meal. Because of its amazing flavor and nutritional profile, it is also a wonderful addition to your favorite smoothies and dips. In many parts of the Philippines, pili nuts are cooked with sugar and sold as it is. Just like other nuts, pili nuts can also be pressed to produce oils.

Storing Pili Nuts

Pili nuts are quite hard to find if you’re not in Southeast Asia, so when you get lucky, make sure to store it wisely. It is recommended to store your nuts in the fridge so its shelf life can extend for up to a year. Just like many nuts, you may also place it in an airtight glass container and store it in a cool and dark place. If you do this, it will last three to four months.

It is recommended to buy raw pili nuts if you want to get optimal health benefits since most roasted and processed nuts are already stripped off of its nutritional content. Don’t worry, you don’t have to waste time de-shelling it since it is usually sold only with its thin skin which can easily be removed when blanched.

The Challenge – A Tough Nut to Crack

Pili nuts are a godsend to everyone. With its impressive flavor and nutritional profile, you may be thinking why you still don’t have it in your grocery cart. This plant is booming in the Philippines, especially parts with volcanic soils. Unfortunately, the cultivation of Pili nut still has a long way to go. It takes about six years for its tree to grow the fruit that contains the nut. Because of the climate of the countries where it is native, it also spoils easily. Thankfully, you can get it at https://nuts.com/nuts/pili.html.