Most consumed dry fruits in Pakistan, including almonds, walnuts, and cashews, displayed in a traditional Pakistani setting.
By |Categories: Blog|Last Updated: January 22, 2025|

Pakistan ranks among the world’s most important producers of dry fruits that people keep taking them locally and internationally. The country’s diverse varieties have earned widespread recognition.

Almonds work to keep cholesterol levels in check and help with weight management. Walnuts are great for the brain because of their omega-3 content. Dates give an energy boost especially when you have anemia. Apricots deliver essential vitamins and minerals that benefit your health.

My extensive research has uncovered the top 9 dry fruits that Pakistani people love most. In this piece, you’ll discover their health benefits, current prices, and popular serving suggestions. You’ll learn to make smart choices about these nutritious treats and explore traditional Pakistani favorites.

Why Dry Fruits are Popular in Pakistan

Dry fruits in Pakistan mean much more than healthy snacks – they tell a story of centuries-old cultural heritage and traditional preservation methods. These nutrient-rich foods have been vital commodities since ancient times and are great to have during long trips and tough weather.

These prized foods grow in many regions of Pakistan. BalochistanKhyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan lead the way as key growing areas, each adding its own special varieties to Pakistan’s dry fruit collection. The people in these regions have perfected traditional drying techniques through generations and keep both the flavors and nutritional value intact.

People eat more dry fruits when winter arrives in Pakistan. These nutritious treats also find their way into traditional winter drinks like:

  • Hot milk enriched with almonds
  • Kahwa garnished with nuts
  • Traditional desserts like Sheer Khurma and Gajar Ka Halwa

Dry fruits mean more than just personal snacking in Pakistani culture. They play a key role in hospitality, where serving dry fruits to guests shows warmth and generosity. These nutritious treats make thoughtful gifts during festivals and special occasions, showing Pakistan’s deep-rooted tradition of sharing and caring.

People’s growing focus on health has led to higher consumption. Dr. Abdul Wahab from the Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology says these foods are great for health, especially in cold weather. The sales go up as temperatures drop, making them a winter essential across Pakistan.

 Top 9 Most Consumed Dry Fruits in Pakistan

Pakistani households treasure nine special dry fruits that you can find everywhere – from Lahore’s busy markets to the quiet valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan. These nutritional gems offer unique flavors, textures, and health benefits of Dry Fruits.

Almonds (Badaam) stand out as Pakistan’s most popular dry fruit. People love using them in both sweet and savory dishes. Walnuts (Akhrot) come next as a household favorite, and many mix them with milk to boost brain power.

Pistachios (Pista) claim the third spot as premium snacks and dessert ingredients. Dates (Khajoor) rank fourth, and their importance grows throughout the year, especially during Ramadan.

Cashews (Kaju) take fifth place, while Raisins (Kishmish) secure the sixth position. These two are common in traditional recipes and make great snacks on their own.

Pine Nuts (Chilghoza) sit at number seven. Despite their high price, people value them for their unique taste and nutrition. Dried Apricots (Khubani) and Figs (Anjeer) complete the list at eighth and ninth places. Both are well-known for their healing properties.

These dry fruits are more than just healthy snacks – they are the foundations of Pakistan’s culinary heritage. Their popularity keeps growing as people recognize their health benefits and cultural importance.

1: Almonds (Badaam)

Badaam, the local name for almonds, stands among Pakistan’s top dry fruits. The country produces 17,420 metric tons of almonds as of 2026. These nutrient-rich seeds started in temperate regions and have become the life-blood of Pakistani cuisine and traditional medicine.

Almonds Nutritional Benefits

A single ounce (28g) of almonds packs impressive nutrients:

NutrientAmount per oz
Protein6g
Fiber3.5g
Fat14g
Vitamin E48% DV
Magnesium18% DV

The calcium and phosphorus in almonds help build stronger bones. Their high vitamin E content also protects against heart disease and cancer.

Almonds Price Range in Pakistan

Almond prices shift based on quality and region. Hardshell almonds sell between 600-900 PKR, while Kagazi badam costs 1000-1300 PKR. You’ll find lower prices in Gilgit-Baltistan compared to cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.

Popular Ways to Consume Almonds

Pakistani households use almonds in countless dishes. These versatile nuts improve traditional desserts like zarda, halwa, and vermicelli. Soaking almonds overnight releases beneficial enzymes that help boost metabolism.

People love eating almonds raw, though roasted versions taste better. Pakistanis add almonds to:

  • Traditional milk-based beverages
  • Bakery items including cakes and cookies
  • Culinary preparations like qorma

Walnuts (Akhrot)

Pakistan ranks as the 18th largest walnut producer worldwide, yielding 15,090 metric tons in 2021. These nutrient-rich nuts are a great way to boost the rural economy in remote areas.

Walnuts Health Benefits

Walnuts stand out as the only tree nut that contains the most important amounts of plant-based omega-3 ALA. Scientists have found that each gram of ALA you take daily cuts heart disease mortality risk by 10%. You get 2.5 grams of ALA from just one ounce (28g) of walnuts.

Research shows that people who eat walnuts regularly see these improvements:

  • Total cholesterol drops by 7 mg/dL
  • LDL cholesterol decreases by 5.5 mg/dL
  • Triglycerides go down by 4.7 mg/dL

Walnuts Price Range in Pakistan

The market has several options at different price points:

  • Kagzi akhrot (soft shell): PKR 900 per 500g
  • Hard shell variety: PKR 599 per 500g
  • Kashmiri akhrot: PKR 1100-1400 per 500g
  • American akhrot giri: PKR 1,250 per 500g

Best Ways to Store Walnuts

We stored walnuts in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Here’s how you can preserve them best:

  • Use airtight containers and keep them away from strong odors
  • Put them in the fridge if you plan to eat them within a month
  • Freeze them up to a year for longer storage
  • Keep them protected from moisture, light, and warmth

Crack your walnuts right before eating them to keep their flavor fresh and prevent them from going rancid. You can eat them straight from the refrigerator or freezer without waiting for them to thaw.

Pistachios (Pista)

Balochistan has emerged as a crucial region for pistachio cultivation in Pakistan. The climate-resilient nature of pistachios makes them ideal for growing in cold areas without conventional irrigation. The environment of Quetta, Zhob, Killa Saifullah, Pishin, Mastung, Khuzdar, and Kalat districts creates optimal conditions for pistachio production.

Pistachios Nutritional Value

A single ounce (28g) of pistachios delivers remarkable nutritional benefits:

NutrientAmount per oz
Calories159
Protein6g
Fiber3g
Fat13g
Vitamin B628% DV
Copper41% DV
Thiamine21% DV

These nutrients help support weight management, gut health, and blood sugar control. Pistachios contain higher amounts of antioxidants than other nuts. Their lutein and zeaxanthin content helps protect eye health.

Pistachios Price Range in Pakistan

Market prices of pistachios vary based on quality and variety. Standard pistachios cost between Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 3,000 per kilogram. Premium varieties command different prices:

  • Roasted pistachios: Rs. 3,450 per kilogram
  • Fandoghi pistachios: Rs. 3,500 to Rs. 3,700 per kilogram
  • Nutri pista with shell: Rs. 1,849 for 200 grams

Popular Pistachio Varieties

We categorized Iranian varieties into rounded and elongated types. The Akbari variety leads among long varieties, with Harati, Ebrahimi, and Ahmad Aghaie among other options. Turkish varieties bring unique characteristics to the market. Uzun features oval-shaped fruits and light green seeds, while Kirmizi shows medium-sized fruits with red pericarp.

Dates (Khajoor)

Dates rank third among Pakistan’s commercial fruits and have substantial importance in domestic consumption and exports. Pakistan has become the world’s fifth-largest date producer with yearly production between 550,000 to 650,000 metric tons.

Dates Health Benefits

A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of dates provides these nutrients:

NutrientAmount
Calories277
Carbohydrates75g
Fiber7g
Protein2g
Potassium15% DV
Magnesium13% DV
Copper40% DV
Iron5% DV

Dates support bone health through their calcium, potassium, and magnesium content. These fruits help boost hemoglobin levels and enhance red blood cell production.

Dates Price Range in Pakistan

The market offers several varieties at different prices:

  • Ajwa Dates: PKR 4,500-5,000 per kg
  • Irani Dates: PKR 650-750 per kg
  • Amber Dates: PKR 4,900 per kg
  • Mabroom Dates: PKR 3,000-3,500 per kg

Most Popular Date Varieties

Pakistan develops more than 160 varieties, with Aseel, Dhakki, and Begum Jangi emerging as the most popular. Sindh’s contribution makes up 50% of Pakistan’s date production, and Khairpur Mirs produces 90% of the region’s output. The market’s leading varieties include Aseel, Karbala, Fasli, and Kupro from Sindh; Muzawati and Begum Jangi from Balochistan; and Dhakki from KPK.

Cashews (Kaju)

Cashews stand out in Pakistani markets with their distinctive kidney shape. These creamy-textured nuts blend taste and nutrition perfectly, which makes them a top choice for health-conscious consumers.

Cashews Nutritional Benefits

A single ounce (28 grams) of cashews delivers an impressive nutritional profile:

NutrientAmountDaily Value
Calories157
Protein5g
Fat12g
Carbs9g
Copper67%
Magnesium20%
Manganese20%
Zinc15%
Iron11%

Cashews contain stearic acid that helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels. Their high magnesium content supports thyroid function and hormone health effectively.

Cashews Price Range in Pakistan

The market features different grades and preparations:

  • Plain Cashews: PKR 3000-3500 per kg
  • Roasted Large: PKR 1300-5200 per kg
  • Regular Roasted: PKR 1100-4400 per kg

Best Ways to Consume Cashews

Cashews’ versatility makes them a great addition to many dishes. Raw or roasted cashews work well as nutritious snacks. They can boost the flavor profile of:

  • Traditional curries and stir-fries
  • Homemade trail mixes
  • Breakfast cereals and granola

Soaking cashews overnight helps release beneficial enzymes. Cashew butter serves as a nutritious alternative to traditional spreads and tastes great on toast or pancakes.

Raisins (Kishmish)

Pakistan’s sweet raisin story centers around two remote districts – Pishin and Killa Abdullah in the southwestern region. These areas produce over 4,000 tons of raisins each season and bring significant revenue to both the province and country.

Raisins Health Benefits

A 100-gram serving of raisins packs impressive nutritional value:

NutrientAmount
Calories299 kcal
Carbohydrates79g
Dietary Fiber4g
Sugars59g
Protein3g
Iron1.9mg
Potassium749mg
Calcium50mg
Magnesium32mg

We found that raisins contain high levels of polyphenols, which sets them apart from other dried fruits with their antioxidant properties. People who eat them regularly experience lower blood pressure and reduced cholesterol levels.

Raisins Price Range in Pakistan

Market prices vary based on quality and variety:

  • Standard Raisins: PKR 500-700 per kilogram
  • Premium Sundarkhani: PKR 1,750 per kilogram
  • Golden Raisins: PKR 1,200-1,400 per kilogram

Popular Uses of Raisins

People just need more raisins now – consumption has jumped 75% over the last several years. Local contractors hire many workers during harvest season from September through mid-November. Farmers dry their crop by first removing damaged grapes and then placing good ones on flat wooden sticks in well-ventilated rooms for a month. These dried fruits become ingredients in everything from traditional desserts to modern health foods.

Pine Nuts (Chilghoza)

Pakistan ranks as the world’s second-largest pine nut producer after China. The country supplies about 15% of the world’s pine nuts. The Sulaiman mountain range is a vital growing area that produces 74% of Pakistan’s total output.

Pine Nuts Nutritional Value

A single ounce (28g) of pine nuts packs these nutrients:

NutrientAmount
Calories191
Fat19g
Protein3.9g
Carbohydrates3.7g
Fiber1.1g
Magnesium71mg
Iron1.6mg
Vitamin E2.6mg
Vitamin K15.3mcg

Pine nuts are rich in healthy unsaturated fats with 9.5g polyunsaturated and 5.3g monounsaturated per ounce. These nutrients help support heart health and lower inflammatory markers.

Pine Nuts Price Range in Pakistan

The market has different grades at various price points:

  • Afghani Chilgoza: PKR 6,000-7,000 per kg
  • Gilgit Chilghoza: PKR 8,000-10,000 per kg
  • Without Shell: PKR 18,500-20,000 per kg

Traditional Uses of Pine Nuts

Pine nuts take three years to reach maturity, but their unique flavor makes the wait worthwhile. These versatile seeds taste great in both sweet and savory dishes. You’ll find them as key ingredients in traditional desserts, and people love to add them to salads or sprinkle them on hummus. In spite of that, pine nuts mean more than just food – their forests provide valuable non-timber products like medicinal plants and honey that support local economies.

Dried Apricots (Khubani)

Gilgit Baltistan leads Pakistan’s apricot production with 114,286 tons, making Pakistan a strong competitor to Turkey in global markets [92,93].

Apricots Health Benefits

A half-cup serving of dried apricots packs these nutrients:

NutrientAmount
Calories120
Fiber5g
Protein3g
Potassium490mg
Vitamin A20% DV
Vitamin C10% DV
Iron8% DV

We found that dried apricots contain beta-carotene and other carotenoid pigments that keep your eyes healthy. These nutrients ended up reducing the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

Apricots Price Range in Pakistan

The market offers these prices based on origin and quality:

  • Gilgit Baltistan dried apricots: PKR 600-900 per kg
  • Afghani dried apricots: PKR 550-830 per kg
  • Turkish dried apricots: PKR 699-1,199 per kg

Popular Apricot Varieties

Hunza’s larger-fruited cultivars excel in both fresh and dry consumption. The Alishah Kakas variety stands out with its high soluble solids and firm texture, making it perfect for fresh shipping and drying. The Dugli cultivar from Ghizer has become popular because it uniquely contains two edible kernels.

Rural households in GB earn PKR 6,000 to 8,000 yearly from apricot and its by-products. The fruit goes through careful selection, proper drying, and meticulous packaging to maintain quality standards.

Figs (Anjeer)

Pakistan considers figs (Anjeer) “the fruit of heaven”. These sweet fruits offer exceptional nutritional value. The country’s market receives significant imports, with recent data showing 1,714,450 Kg of fresh and dried figs.

Figs Nutritional Benefits

A single fresh fig (40 grams) provides complete nutrition:

NutrientAmount
Calories30
Carbs8g
Fiber1g
Copper3% DV
Magnesium2% DV
Vitamin B63% DV
Vitamin K2% DV

We discovered that figs contain flavonoids, polyphenols, and antioxidants that help curb various health conditions. These nutrients prove effective in treating anemia, diabetes, liver disease, and skin conditions.

Figs Price Range in Pakistan

The market offers various options:

  • Dried Afghani Figs: PKR 2,999-4,999 per kg
  • Local Organic Figs: PKR 2,500-4,000 per kg
  • Hunza Figs: PKR 1,500-2,900 per kg

Best Ways to Consume Figs

Fresh or dried figs pair wonderfully with nut butter. They add a sweet touch to garden salads and slaws. A nutritious breakfast emerges when you combine them with yogurt and nuts. Pakistani households often incorporate figs into their desserts and sweet dishes. These versatile fruits enhance both sweet and savory recipes, from jams to chutneys effectively.

Seasonal Demand for Dry Fruits

Pakistan sees a remarkable increase in dry fruit sales when winter arrives, with consumption reaching its peak in colder months. Sales jump up by 49% compared to other seasons.

Winter brings noticeable changes to dry fruit prices in the market. A kilogram of almonds costs between PKR 740-780, while walnuts are available at PKR 600. Pistachios sell for PKR 2,400. Pine nuts top the price list at PKR 5,400 per kilogram.

These nutritious ingredients play a key role in traditional winter delicacies. Popular winter desserts like gajar ka halwa and sohn halwa usually come packed with an assortment of dry fruits. People’s eating habits naturally lean towards warmer options, and dry fruits become a common addition to hot milk and traditional kahwa.

The seasonal dry fruit trade has found a new home in the digital world. Winter months bring increased activity to e-commerce stores. These online marketplaces make premium varieties available to consumers at competitive prices.

Dry fruits’ health benefits become more valuable in winter. Doctors point out that dried fruits pack more fiber than their fresh counterparts. These energy-rich foods provide 352.04–505.31 calories per 100g for dried fruits and 875.86-616.46 calories per 100g for nuts. These nutrients have traditionally helped people stay warm in cold weather.

Gilgit-BaltistanHunza, and Skardu in the northern regions show unique patterns in dry fruit availability throughout seasons. These areas keep supplies running year-round through long harvest seasons and effective storage techniques.

Dry Fruits in Traditional Pakistani Cuisine

Dry fruits play a vital role in Pakistan’s culinary heritage. Gurr Waly Chawal, a sweet rice dish loved by many, combines cashews, almonds, dry coconut and raisins to create its unique taste. This special blend has become a family favorite that passes down through generations.

Pakistani desserts showcase a creative mix of dry fruits. The traditional Gazak blends jaggery or cane sugar with ghee and features almonds and pistachios. Modern treats like date-nut bars have emerged as a healthy option that combines dates with different nuts.

Tea time customs in Pakistan have a special connection with dry fruits. The traditional high tea, known as ‘sham ki chai,’ needs platters filled with almonds, pistachios, and walnuts. People arrange these nuts in beautiful patterns that create perfect settings for heartfelt conversations.

Traditional DishKey Dry Fruit Components
Dry Fruit QormaApricots, Almonds, Cashews, Raisins, Plums
Sheer KhurmaMixed Dry Fruits
Dry Fruit CakeAssorted Nuts and Dried Fruits
Dry Fruit LadduMixed Nuts

Pakistan’s cuisine has strong roots in Mughal traditions and shows expertise in mixing dried fruits with spices. This cooking style reflects the country’s rich connection to the ancient Silk Route and brings together flavors from Central Asia and Persia.

Where to Buy Quality Dry Fruits in Pakistan

Pakistan’s various regions are home to excellent dry fruit suppliers who blend traditional market charm with modern shopping convenience. Gilgit Baltistan stands out as a key source, where suppliers get their organic dried fruits straight from Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Nagar, Astore, and Khaplu.

Dry Fruits Mart has built its reputation over 20 years. They excel at wholesale distribution and create premium gift boxes. Their product range features carefully selected combinations that come in three to six-item gift boxes.

Buyers looking for bulk purchases can get wholesale rates from Dry Fruits Mart in major cities:

  • Islamabad/Rawalpindi
  • Lahore
  • Karachi

Reputable suppliers put quality first. They source directly from top growers, use modern cleaning facilities, and follow careful packaging methods.

Health Benefits of Consuming Dry Fruits

Recent scientific research shows strong evidence that eating dry fruits regularly offers significant health benefits. Studies have found that dried fruits are rich in concentrated bioactive compounds like phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids.

Dried fruits pack more nutritional value than fresh ones in many ways:

Health AspectKey Benefits
Heart HealthReduces LDL cholesterol by 7 mg/dL
Brain FunctionSupports cognitive performance through omega-3 fatty acids
Digestive HealthPromotes beneficial gut bacteria growth
Bone HealthStrengthens through calcium and potassium content
Energy LevelsProvides 352-505 calories per 100g

Studies show that people who eat dried fruits maintain better quality diets. Clinical evidence confirms their positive effects on glucose metabolism and reduced cardiovascular disease risks.

These fruits contain 3.7 to 9.8g of fiber per 100g, which gives you 10-16% of your daily recommended intake. This fiber content helps digestion and supports weight management by making you feel fuller longer.

New epidemiological studies link dried fruit consumption to lower risks of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Moderation is vital since eating too much can lead to weight gain. A daily serving of 20-30g strikes the right balance between nutrition and calories.

Comparison Table

Dry FruitPrice Range (PKR/kg)Key Nutritional BenefitsPopular Uses/Consumption MethodsMain Production/Source Region
Almonds (Badaam)600-1300Protein: 6g/oz, Fiber: 3.5g/oz, Vitamin E: 48% DVTraditional milk beverages, bakery items, qormaTemperate regions
Walnuts (Akhrot)599-1400Omega-3 ALA, reduces heart disease risk, lowers cholesterolDirect consumption, refrigerated storageNot specified
Pistachios (Pista)2000-3700Protein: 6g/oz, Fiber: 3g/oz, Vitamin B6: 28% DVTraditional desserts, snackingBalochistan (Quetta, Zhob, Pishin)
Dates (Khajoor)650-5000Carbs: 75g/100g, Fiber: 7g/100g, Potassium: 15% DVDirect consumption, dessertsSindh (50% of production)
Cashews (Kaju)3000-5200Protein: 5g/oz, Copper: 67% DV, Magnesium: 20% DVCurries, trail mixes, breakfast cerealsNot specified
Raisins (Kishmish)500-1750Iron: 1.9mg/100g, Potassium: 749mg/100gTraditional desserts, health foodsPishin and Killa Abdullah
Pine Nuts (Chilghoza)6000-20000Fat: 19g/oz, Protein: 3.9g/oz, Vitamin E: 2.6mg/ozDesserts, salads, hummusSulaiman mountain range
Dried Apricots (Khubani)550-1199Fiber: 5g/serving, Vitamin A: 20% DV, Iron: 8% DVDirect consumption, traditional dishesGilgit Baltistan
Figs (Anjeer)1500-4999Carbs: 8g/40g, Fiber: 1g/40g, rich in flavonoidsDesserts, salads, breakfast with yogurtImported

Conclusion

Pakistan’s dry fruit tradition shows deep cultural roots and growing health awareness. These nutritious foods pack concentrated nutrients – from walnuts rich in heart-healthy omega-3s to dried apricots full of vision-supporting beta-carotene. Their versatility makes them perfect for traditional desserts and modern healthy recipes.

Winter months see a natural spike in dry fruit consumption, showing how popular they remain. Local markets stock up to just need with options at different price points. Almonds and dates continue to be household favorites, while pine nuts add a touch of luxury to special occasions.

Quality matters most when selecting dry fruits. Pakistan’s premium dry fruits offer fresh, handpicked varieties that boost health while tasting delicious. Dry Fruits Mart delivers these straight to your doorstep nationwide!

Smart storage helps keep these valuable foods fresh longer. Nuts like walnuts and almonds stay fresh longer in the fridge, and airtight containers protect all varieties from moisture damage. These simple preservation methods have helped Pakistani families enjoy nutritious dry fruits year-round for generations.

FAQs

Q1. What are the most popular dry fruits consumed in Pakistan?

Almonds, dates, walnuts, and pistachios are among the most widely consumed dry fruits in Pakistan. These nutritious treats are valued for their taste, health benefits, and cultural significance.

Q2. How do seasonal changes affect dry fruit consumption in Pakistan?

Dry fruit consumption in Pakistan typically increases during winter months, with demand rising by up to 49% compared to other seasons. This surge is attributed to their warming properties and nutritional benefits during colder weather.

Q3. What are some traditional Pakistani dishes that incorporate dry fruits?

Many traditional Pakistani dishes feature dry fruits, including Gurr Waly Chawal (sweet rice with cashews, almonds, and raisins), Sheer Khurma (a dessert with mixed dry fruits), and Dry Fruit Qorma (a savory dish with apricots, almonds, cashews, and raisins).

Q4. Where can one find high-quality dry fruits in Pakistan?

High-quality dry fruits can be sourced from various regions in Pakistan, with Gilgit Baltistan being a prime source for organic varieties. Reputable suppliers like Quetta Dry Fruits, Khaas Dry Fruits, and GB Dry Fruit Supplier offer premium selections across major cities.

Q5. What are the key health benefits of consuming dry fruits regularly?

Regular consumption of dry fruits offers numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, enhanced brain function, better digestive health, and stronger bones. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall well-being when consumed in moderation.

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