The Land of Pistachios

“The Land of Pistachios” narrates the journey of pistachios from Rafsanjan to California. This book is part of the “Narrative” series by Soore Mehr Publications and is written by Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini. Regarding the origin and the historical background of pistachios, the book states: “The oldest artifact related to pistachios discovered in the world is a half-burnt piece of wood from the Stone Age, found around one thousand years ago near the city of Fasa (in Fars Province). It is currently kept in the Pars Museum. Herodotus, the renowned Greek historian, also makes references to the cultivation of pistachios in his writings. Therefore, the pistachio tree has a long historical presence in Iran, and it is believed that this crop has been cultivated in Iran for four thousand years. From ancient times, Iranians intuitively recognized the blood-generating, life-giving, and mind-enhancing properties of pistachios. For example, according to the narration of the sage of Tus, Ferdowsi, a Sasanian king in the final days of antiquity ordered pistachios to be stored as vital and energizing food in the fortresses of Khorasan so that they could withstand enemy invasions.”

Excerpt from The Land of Pistachios:

“Gholamreza Aghaei seeks advice from merchants in Bombay. They introduce him to traders in New York. These New Yorkers were originally from Syria, Christian, and living in the United States. Because pistachios grew in Syria, they were familiar with the product. Aghaei takes their address and then sends them a few sacks of pistachios from Bombay. He then telegraphs them, asking them to sell the pistachios and transfer the money. Aghaei’s efforts succeed because there were no pistachios in America and the Syrian merchants were fond of them. Thus, the first major destination for Rafsanjan pistachios—one that would last for several decades—was established. It also became clear what was to be done with the pistachios produced: they were going to be exported! Exactly the incentive that had motivated Aghaei from the beginning of his work.”