The Power of the Filipino Pili Nut

Pili trees thrive across Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands, including the tropical rainforests of Bicol, Philippines. Though for centuries they have grown wildly in this region, more and more local communities are cultivating Filipino Pili nut trees commercially. And because of this, more people around the world are falling in love with its unique, nutritious fruit, or what many hail the "world's healthiest nut". 

Filipino Pili Nut Trees in Bulusan. photo: Alma Gamil (for Flickr)

Cultivating Pili trees take patience. Though they're pretty resilient, being resistant to pests and typhoons, it takes about five to six years before the tree bears fruit. But it's worth the wait because, once fully grown, Filipino pili nut trees reach up to about 65 feet high and produces 32 kg (70 lbs) of nuts in a year. And each nut is housed in a hard, thick, teardrop-shaped shell. 

With its unique flavor and loads of nutrition benefits, it's no wonder the Filipino pili nut is steadily winning the world over, one savory nut at a time. Here's even more reasons the Filipino pili nut will be your new favorite snack.

5 Reasons to Love the Filipino Pili Nut

1. The Filipino Pili Nut is Uniquely Delicious

The flavor of pili nuts is both unique and familiar, often likened to a cross between macadamia, almonds, and cashew nuts, but with a milder flavor.

When roasted, pili nuts have a light, buttery flavor and a texture that's both soft and crisp. Best of all, each savory morsel melts easily in the mouth. 

2. The Filipino Pili Nut Can Keep You Glowing

Each pili nut possesses healthy doses of vitamin E, which promotes skin and hair health. It also boasts some magnesium content, which has been known to help promote restful sleep, regulates mood, and energy metabolism.

And what better way to achieve that youthful glow than being well rested and happy, right? 

3. The Filipino Pili Nut is Versatile

Pili nuts don't just have a unique flavor and texture, each part of the Pili nut is useful. Pili kernels can be processed into kernel oil, a healthier alternative to olive oil, that's naturally sweet and can be used in confectioneries.  

Raw pili nuts can be used as a laxative, while Pili pulp can be boiled and added to salads. Even the hard exterior of pili nuts can be processed into fuel. And pili can also be used in beauty and cosmetic products. 

4. The Filipino Pili Nut Keeps You Healthy

Pili nuts are a rich source of good fat and protein, which promotes heart health. Each small nut, which ranges from 1 to 3 inches, is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, like potassium, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-oxidants, which can aid in fighting against diseases and free radicals.

Snacking on pili nuts can also keep you feeling full longer and curb cravings, thanks to its amino acid content.

5. The Filipino Pili Nut is a Good Snacking Choice, On Any Diet

Pili nuts are high in healthy fats and low in carbohydrates. Because of its high protein content, pili nuts can help maintain healthy levels of cholesterol, and in so doing it can help regulate metabolism. 

Whatever your needs or preferences are, pili nuts would be an awesome addition to your diet. 

Pili nuts can be enjoyed raw, salted, roasted, or coated in sugar. They can be added to polvoron (shortbread) or cake. 

But our favorite way to enjoy this flavorful, healthy nut? 

Ynut! Pili Nut Glazed with Honey

C.O.P. Pili Sweets and Pastries' Ynut!, made from the delicious Pili Nuts of Bicol, Philippines has managed to create a crisp and sweet pili-based snack that will surely win hearts all over the world.