Shelled Raw Pistachios (Fustuq Halabi)

Fustuq halabi hab is the everyday Lebanese name for shelled pistachios: the green kernels without their hard shells, ready to use. Raw pistachios are a staple of Lebanese kitchens and sweets. They are chopped or ground to fill and top maamoul, baklava, knefeh and ashta desserts, sprinkled over mhallabieh and rice pudding, and stirred into rice dishes, stuffings and ice cream. Many people also toast them lightly at home for snacking or blend them into spreads and sauces. Shelled pistachios are sold by the kilo at Dekenet Al Nes in Baaqline, in the Chouf. It is a package-free grocery store, so customers are encouraged to bring their own jars or bags and take only the amount they need, helping cut plastic waste and single-use packaging.