The Fresh Food Club
print Print this page

Pine Nut

In season all year

Food Description:

Pine nuts are the seeds from the cones of some varieties of pine tree. They are small, pale cream in colour with a delicate 'pine' taste.

Pine nuts have been used in Italian cooking for over 2,000 years. It is reputed that around the Mediterranean and in the East pine nuts were used for their aphrodisiac properties.

Be that as it may, the high regard for these little nuts in the Mediterranean cuisine is evident when you examine the history. In ancient Roman times they were made into wine, preserved in honey, used in sausages and other recipes and later, huge forests were planted as a direct response to Papal decrees.

However, other varieties of pine nuts have also been grown and eaten in various parts of the world. In the South Western parts of the United states, it is thought that the kernels of the North American Pinon tree were eaten as a staple food some 10,000 years ago and species are also to be found in Korea, China, Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan where it has been a traditional food of nomadic tribes.

General Information:

Category: Seed
To Buy: Pine nuts can go rancid easily. Ensure you buy them from a place with a high turnover of product. Look for uniformity in colour. Buy small quantities often rather than large packs to store.
To Store: Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 months. Pine nuts can also be frozen in plastic bags.
Tips and Tricks: Pine nuts have a high content of polyunsaturated fat and can therfore burn easily. If dry roasting the nuts use a heavy-based pan.

Nutrition (1 Tablespoon):

Weight (grams): 14.5
Carbohydrates, g: 0.7
Fat (g): 10.1
Monosaturated Fat , g: 3.3
Magnesium: Involved in energy production and proper functioning of muscles and nerves, magnesium also promotes the absorption of other minerals and promotes blood vessel dilation and lowers the risk of blood clots.
Salicylates: Naturally occurring plant chemicals found in several fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs and spices, jams, honey, yeast extracts, tea and coffee, juices, beer and wines. Also present in flavourings, perfumes, scented toiletries and some medications. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. High
Energy (kJ): 423
Protein (g): 1.9
Saturated Fat, g : 0.6
Zinc: Antioxidant and immune boosting, zinc fights infection and plays a role in wound healing. It is essential for growth and health of reproductive organs, especially the prostate. Needed for healthy hair, skin and nails. Also necessary for bone formation.
Amines: Amines come the breakdown or fermentation of proteins. High amounts are found in cheese, chocolate, wine, beer and yeast extracts. Smaller amounts are present in some fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, avocados, bananas. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. No information available
Glutamates: Glutamate is found naturally in many foods, as part of protein. It enhances the flavour of food, which is why foods rich in natural glutamates such as tomatoes, mushrooms and cheeses are commonly used in meals. Pure monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as an additive to artificially flavour many processed foods, and should be avoided, especially in sensitive individuals as it can cause serious adverse reactions. n/a

Cooking:

Cooking Tips: Pine nuts are delicious in salads, pestos, ground and mixed with herbs to make a crust or stuffing for fish and chicken. They may be high in fat but it's a good fat and you won't need many to enrich the flavour of your dish.

Benefits the Following Health Conditions:*

Low Energy
Stress

* This information is sourced by a qualified naturopath. It is non prescriptive and not intended as a cure for the condition. Recommended intake is not provided. It is no substitute for the advice and treatment of a professional practitioner.



Disclaimer:
The Food Coach provides all content as is, without warranty. The Food Coach is not responsible for errors or omissions, or consequences of improper preparation, user allergies, or any other consequence of food preparation or consumption.





Natures Best Belfield

Address: 29 Burwood Rd Belfield
Call us: 9642 5613
Drop in: Monday - Saturday 8am - 6pm Sunday 8am - 5pm
Proud members of
The Fresh Food Club