Hulling

Once pistachios are harvested, the hulls should be removed within a short period of time -- no more than 24 hours -- to avoid shell staining. (The hull traps moisture which stains the shell if left for a long period of time.) Hulls can be removed by gently rubbing the pistachios together between two towels or in a plastic bag.

Roasting

Home roasting allows you to prepare pistachios according to your own personal taste: shorter roasting time for crisp pistachios with minimal roasted flavor, and longer roasting time for a stronger roasted flavor.

Dissolve 2 to 3 ounces of salt in 4 ounces of water (1/2 cup). Pour this salt solution into a deep saucepan over high heat. Add about 8 to 10 cups of pistachios and stir until all water has evaporated and salt is deposited on the nuts.

Spread nuts on a cookie sheet in a preheated 250 degree F. oven and roast 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 hours, depending upon taste preference. Stir every 30 minutes.