When raw material and territory make the difference. It is the case of Bronte pistachio from the company Antichi Sapori dell'Etna (better known as Pistì), an example of Made in Italy excellence in the world. The close link with the Sicilian territory makes Pistì a brand that embodies innovation, tradition and craftsmanship.
The company was born in Bronte, in the province of Catania at the foot of Etna, about 20 years ago. Two friends, Nino Marino and Vicenzo Longhitano, united by passion, creativity and ambition, decided to set up a small artisan workshop for the production of typical Sicilian sweets, such as: nougat, panettone, colombe, brittle and chocolate and much more. With an undisputed protagonist: the green pistachio of Bronte DOP, a special fruit that the company grows and harvests on its land. After the debut at the "Cibus" in Parma, consensus skyrocketed and the company began to expand. Over the years, the company has become a point of reference for the Sicilian territory and thanks to its high standards of quality and craftsmanship, Pistì employs over 90 people, 220 in periods of high production (with a workforce of 90% female).
In less than five years, the Bronte-based company's turnover has grown unstoppably: from just under 12 million euros in 2014 rose to almost 45 million in 2019. With a total production of around 35-40% of pistachios and with many projects for the future. Not even the health crisis has stopped the rise of Pistì, thanks to large-scale distribution and online sales. In addition to investing in new land (for a total of 120 hectares of owned pistachio groves), the company has also planned an investment of 5 million euros for the construction of new laboratories. Pistì products are currently sold in 41 countries with exports accounting for 35% of turnover.
A mostly "pink" company, linked to the territory and to the excellence of the raw materials, with great attention to the environmental sustainability: all processes, from manufacturing to packaging, are carried out by hand. These are all reasons why the Bronte-based company won the ambitious “Imprese Vincenti 2020” award, promoted by Intesa Sanpaolo. Also very attentive to training, the Company has given life to two schools: one for confectionery and one for agricultural culture.
The Bronte green pistachio is a Slow Food Presidium and DOP product which characterizes many Sicilian desserts, such as ice cream, nougats and dry biscuits. A fruit that grows above 300 meters above sea level, also known as "Green Gold" as its marketing is very precious for these territories. The plant requires little care and grows on lava and rocky soils. The harvest takes place between the end of August and the beginning of September.
Flagship is the pistachio cream Pisti (in which 45% of the best pistachio is used), which is characterized by a bright green colour, an enveloping aroma and a unique flavour. Perfect for enhancing the sweetest desserts. The Pistì pistachio pesto, on the other hand, is ideal for seasoning first courses but also those based on meat. The authenticity and craftsmanship have made it famous even outside the national borders.
Pistachio from Bronte DOP: beneficial properties
Pistachios have numerous nutritional properties beneficial to health. Rich in fiber and mineral salts, such as calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. The latter promote blood circulation and counteract swelling. Furthermore, they are an important source of vegetable proteins, antioxidants and polyphenols that help protect us from free radicals and prevent premature aging.
Among the different types of dried fruit, they are considered the most useful for keeping high cholesterol under control thanks to the monounsaturated fats contained in this product. They are also a great source of vitamins of group B and E. They also have excellent anti-inflammatory properties and promote good mood, reducing stress.
According to many studies, their consumption helps prevent the onset of diabetes (especially type 2), as they lower blood sugar levels, improving the transformation of glucose. Recommended, above all, during pregnancy thanks to the content of Omega 3, Omega 6 and folic acid. They are an excellent ally of hair and skin, pistachio oil in fact fights skin dryness.
The pistachio has a high calorie content (the recommended daily dose is 30 grams). Despite what is said, pistachios do not make you fat or rather, if consumed in the right quantities, they help maintain a healthy weight because they give a sense of satiety. Even better if eaten plain, unsalted and toasted as they are more caloric and harmful to the figure.
Uses of Green Gold in the kitchen
It is a very versatile food in the kitchen, able to enhance savory and sweet dishes but also to be eaten on its own. In particular, Bronte pistachios are sweeter and more aromatic, since they do not undergo salting or roasting. Renowned is the pistachio pesto, whose undeniable goodness borders Sicily. The flour and grains are usually combined with ricotta, béchamel or cream to flavor pasta. Also excellent with speck, fish or meat. Usually, it is added whole to mortadella to flavor it or minced in sauces or gravies.
