20 types of nut

What is a nut?

Nuts are a kitchen staple, loved for their rich flavours, satisfying crunch and nutritional punch. But what exactly is a nut? The answer depends on whether you're speaking botanically or culinarily.

Botanically speaking, a true nut is a hard-shelled, dry fruit that contains a single seed. Its tough, woody shell stays intact and doesn’t naturally split open to release the seed—a trait known as being indehiscent. Classic examples of true nuts include acorns, chestnuts, and hazelnuts.

In the culinary world, however, the definition of a nut is far broader. It includes seeds and legumes that may not be true nuts in the botanical sense but share similar textures and nutritional qualities. For example, almonds, cashews and pistachios are actually seeds from drupes—a type of fruit with a fleshy outer layer. Meanwhile, the humble peanut is a legume that grows underground like beans and lentils. Yet, they’re all grouped in cooking for their versatility and rich, nutty flavours.

How many types of nuts are there?

Due to the culinary definition of a nut being so much broader than the botanical version, globally, there are more than 300 nut types. This includes tree nuts (like almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts) as well as peanuts (technically a type of legume) and coconuts (which would be considered a seed).

Tips for cooking with nuts

• Choose the right nut for your recipe: Each nut has its unique flavour profile and texture, which works better for different dishes. For example, cashews are buttery and creamy, working perfectly in curries and vegan recipes, whereas hazelnuts are sweet, making them an excellent pairing for desserts.
• Toast for depth of flavour: Toasting nuts enhances their natural oils and brings out a richer flavour.
• Use nuts as a flour alternative: Ground nuts can be used as a gluten-free substitute for flour in baking or as a breading for meats and vegetables.
• Create nut butter & pastes: Making homemade nut butter means you can alter them to suit your preferences.
• Soak your nuts: Soaking nuts softens their texture and makes them easier to digest.
• Use nuts in sauces and dressings: Blend nuts into dips, dressings or sauces.
• Incorporate nuts in baking: Adding nuts to bakes like cakes or brownies adds a differing texture and flavour.
• Make nut milk: Save money by making your own nut milk by soaking nuts in water, blending them and then straining them.
• Experiment with nut oils: Nut oils like walnut or hazelnut oil can add a rich flavour to dressings or drizzles. However, they are better used sparingly to top dishes than to cook on heat.

What is the best way to store nuts?

Proper storage of nuts is essential to preserve their freshness, flavour and nutritional value. Nuts contain natural oils that can become rancid if exposed to heat, light or air for extended periods. Throw away nuts that show signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell, an off taste that is bitter or soapy or you can visibly see mould.

General tips for storing nuts

• Airtight containers: Store nuts in airtight containers to prevent exposure to air, which can lead to oxidation and spoilage. Glass jars, plastic containers with tight lids, or resealable bags work well.
• Cool, dry place: Keep nuts in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Heat can cause the oils in nuts to go rancid quickly.
• Refrigeration: Nuts can be stored in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life, especially in warm climates. This is particularly useful for nuts with higher oil content, such as walnuts, pecans, and macadamias.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, nuts can be frozen. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag to protect them from moisture and freezer odours. Nuts can last for up to 6 months in the freezer without losing quality.
• Keep shelled: If possible, store nuts in their shells. The shells act as a natural barrier, helping to protect nuts from air and light, thus extending their shelf life.

Are nuts healthy?

Nuts are a powerhouse of nutrition, making them a brilliant addition to a balanced diet. Packed with healthy fats, protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals, these nutrient-dense snacks offer a range of impressive health benefits, including:

• Rich in protective antioxidants – helping to combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Supporting heart health – thanks to heart-friendly fats and essential nutrients.
• Aiding in weight management – providing lasting energy and promoting satiety.
• Boosting brain health – with key nutrients that may support cognitive function.
• Helping to improve blood sugar control – by balancing energy release and reducing sugar spikes.

Discover more about how nuts can support your health in our expert guides on the top health benefits of nuts, the top healthiest nuts and 30 of the healthiest winter foods.

Types of nuts

1. Pistachios

Pistachios are among the most cherished and versatile nuts, celebrated for their vibrant green hue and naturally sweet, nutty flavour. Native to the Middle East and Central Asia, these little gems have been enjoyed for thousands of years and are prized for their taste and impressive health benefits. Packed with heart-friendly fats, fibre and antioxidants, pistachios can support heart health, aid in weight management, promote good digestion, and even help protect your eyes.

Their versatility shines in both sweet and savoury dishes. Pistachio ice cream is a classic favourite—why not try making your own with our pistachio ice cream recipe? Or, for a savoury twist, blitz pistachios with fresh herbs, olive oil, and garlic for a vibrant pistachio pesto. It makes a flavourful rub for our pistachio pesto salmon & vegetable traybake, perfect for a wholesome midweek meal.

2. Coconut

Coconut is often grouped with nuts in the kitchen despite technically being a seed—or, more precisely, a drupe. Harvested from the coconut palm tree (Cocos nucifera), this tropical powerhouse features a tough outer shell that protects its creamy white flesh and naturally hydrating water.

Loved worldwide for its rich, subtly sweet flavour, coconut is a staple in sweet and savoury dishes. It’s packed with healthy fats that support heart health, aids digestion, and its naturally electrolyte-rich water makes it perfect for hydration. Find out more about the health benefits of coconut water and coconut milk.

Coconut milk brings a luscious creaminess to dishes like our fragrant Thai green chicken curry or adds indulgence to sweet treats like our coconut chai traybake. For a refreshing twist, coconut water blends beautifully into smoothies or cocktails—try it in our tropical coco fizz. Don’t overlook the shredded flesh either—it’s a delightful garnish for salads, soups, or even cakes, adding texture and a hint of sweetness.

3. Macadamia nuts

Macadamia nuts are a luxurious tree nut native to Australia, now thriving in tropical and subtropical regions like Hawaii, South Africa and Central America. Renowned for their rich, buttery flavour and irresistibly creamy texture, macadamias are a true indulgence—perfect for snacking, baking, or adding a decadent touch to sweet and savoury dishes.

Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with tart cranberries. Try them together in our moreish macadamia & cranberry American cookies or baked into our chocolate, cranberry & macadamia brownies for a rich, nutty twist.

4. Brazil nuts

Brazil nuts are nutrient-packed seeds from the towering Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa), native to the lush Amazon rainforest. Renowned for their rich, creamy texture and earthy flavour, these nuts are one of the best natural sources of selenium. This vital trace mineral supports antioxidant defences, thyroid health and a strong immune system.

One to three Brazil nuts a day provides your recommended daily selenium intake. However, moderation is key, as excessive selenium can lead to unwanted side effects like nausea, brittle nails, and fatigue. Read more about the health benefits of brazil nuts.

For a quick and nourishing meal, try our Brazil nut burritos—a hearty vegetarian dinner bursting with flavour that is ready in just 20 minutes.

5. Pine nuts

Pine nuts are delicate, buttery seeds harvested from pine trees, prized for their mild, nutty flavour. Grown primarily in the Mediterranean, North America, and parts of Asia, these little seeds come with a premium price tag due to the labour-intensive process of extracting them from pine cones. Nutritionally, pine nuts are a powerhouse, packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, plant-based protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Adding them to your diet can support heart health, manage weight, boost energy levels, and promote healthy skin and eyes.

Pine nuts are a key ingredient in a classic homemade pesto, lending a rich, creamy texture. They’re also perfect for adding crunch and depth to salads—try them scattered over our griddled aubergine salad with sultanas & pine nuts.

6. Peanuts

Though often called nuts, peanuts are technically legumes, belonging to the same family as beans and lentils. Unlike tree nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews, peanuts grow underground. However, they’re commonly grouped with nuts due to their similar nutrient profile, culinary versatility, and impressive health benefits.

Peanuts are a brilliant source of plant-based protein and heart-healthy fats. They can help with weight management, support blood sugar balance, and are packed with antioxidants, making them a smart addition to a balanced diet.

For a simple and delicious way to enjoy peanuts, try making homemade peanut butter. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, stirring into granola or porridge, or baking into sweet treats. Peanuts also shine in savoury dishes—add a rich, nutty kick to your meals with our spicy peanut butter & corn ramen for a comforting, flavour-packed twist.

7. Walnuts

Walnuts are a beloved tree nut, easily recognised by their distinctive brain-like shape and rich, earthy flavour. Packed with heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals, walnuts are also a natural prebiotic, helping to support gut health.

They make a satisfying snack on their own or can be transformed into a sweet treat—try coating them in sugar for a quick energy boost or scattering our quick frosted walnuts over homemade ice cream for a delightful crunch against creamy textures.

Walnuts are a brilliant alternative to pine nuts in pestos, offering a more affordable twist without sacrificing flavour. Whip up our walnut & red pepper pesto pasta for a vibrant, nutty dish. And for a true classic, bake them into a traditional coffee and walnut cake—a timeless pairing that lets their rich flavour shine.

8. Cashew nuts

Despite their misleading name, cashews are actually seeds derived from the cashew fruit, which is classified as a drupe. These kidney-shaped seeds are celebrated for their creamy texture, subtly sweet taste, and myriad health advantages. Packed with unsaturated fats, protein and essential minerals such as magnesium, zinc and iron, cashews make a superb addition to any balanced diet. They promote heart health, offer antioxidant benefits, aid in weight management, enhance blood sugar regulation, support bone strength and fortify the immune system.

Thanks to their creamy consistency, cashews serve as an excellent dairy substitute in vegan diets. By soaking the nuts overnight until they soften, you can blend them into a luscious, creamy base perfect for enriching curries, pasta sauces, and beyond. Explore this technique in our delectable vegan mac and cheese recipe for a truly indulgent twist, then check out more cashew recipes.

9. Almonds

Almonds are among the most versatile and beloved nuts, prized for their subtly sweet flavour and impressive health benefits. These edible seeds come from the almond tree (Prunus dulcis) and are typically encased in a hard shell, which is removed before consumption. Often hailed as a superfood, almonds are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E and magnesium, making them a nutrient-packed snack choice. Whether enjoyed on their own or incorporated into various dishes, almonds offer a host of health benefits. Read more about the many health benefits of almonds.

An easy way to enjoy almonds is simply raw as a snack. Pair them with popcorn and raisins in our almond, raisin & popcorn trail mix for a grab-and-go snack. Almonds can also be ground into a fine powder and used to replace flour in baking. Try our almond flour pancakes or our flourless chocolate & almond cake for some gluten-free options.

Discover many more almond recipes.

10. Chestnuts

Unlike most other nuts, Chestnuts stand apart with their unique nutritional profile. They offer a distinct texture and flavour with a lower fat and higher carbohydrate content than most tree nuts. The edible fruit of trees in the same family as the beech tree, chestnuts, are encased in green, spiky shells that reveal the nut once peeled. In the UK, they are in season from October to December, making them a quintessential ingredient in autumnal and winter dishes. Roasted chestnuts are a festive Christmas favourite—why not try making your own? Their earthy sweetness pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables such as parsnips, carrots and potatoes. Try them in our creamy chestnut, bacon & parsnip soup for a comforting bowl on a cold day. Or, for a sweet treat, indulge in our chestnut profiteroles or chestnut truffle cake for a delicious seasonal dessert.

Discover more chestnut recipes.

11. Tiger nuts

Despite their name, tiger nuts are not actually nuts but small tubers from the plant Cyperus esculentus. Cultivated for centuries, they are particularly popular in regions such as Africa and the Mediterranean, where they are also known as chufa, earth almonds, or yellow nutsedge. Tiger nuts are a delightful snack with their naturally sweet, nutty flavour and chewy texture. Rich in fibre, they boast prebiotic properties and are packed with heart-healthy fats, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.

12. Acorns

Acorns, the nuts of oak trees, may not be as commonly eaten today but have long been a staple in many traditional diets. They offer many health benefits, packed with carbohydrates, fibre and essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium. However, acorns require processing to remove tannins—naturally occurring compounds that can be bitter and harmful in large amounts. This is done by ‘leaching’ the acorns in boiling water to make them safe and palatable. Once prepared, acorns can be ground into flour for baking or added to soups and stews, lending a subtle, nutty flavour to your dishes.

13. Pecans

Pecans are a much-loved nut, celebrated for their rich, buttery flavour and versatility in both sweet and savoury dishes. Native to North America, pecans are the fruit of the pecan tree (Carya illinoinensis), a species of hickory. Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, pecans are also a good source of antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

A classic in baking, pecans shine in pies, cookies, and cakes, with the iconic pecan pie being a quintessential American dessert. But these nuts are just as delicious in savoury dishes, adding texture and flavour. Try them in our roasted beets, plum & pecan salad or pair them with goat’s cheese and pear in our goat’s cheese, pear & candied pecan salad for a satisfying twist.

14. Marcona almonds

Marcona almonds are a prized variety native to Spain, often celebrated as the "queen of almonds" for their exceptional flavour, texture and nutritional benefits. Unlike the more familiar almonds, Marcona almonds are rounder, softer, and naturally sweeter, making them a favourite in gourmet cooking. Their delicate, buttery taste and smooth texture make them perfect as a luxurious standalone snack or a premium addition to charcuterie boards, salads and tapas.

15. Pili nuts

Pili nuts are a luxurious and nutrient-dense treat, celebrated for their unique flavour, creamy texture, and impressive health benefits. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines, these teardrop-shaped nuts come from the tropical pili tree (Canarium ovatum). When raw, pili nuts boast a buttery texture and a flavour reminiscent of sunflower seeds. Once roasted, they develop a chewy exterior with a rich, buttery interior, making them a sought-after delicacy.

Encased in a hard shell that takes effort to crack open, pili nuts are prized in many regions for their rarity and flavour. Naturally low in carbohydrates, they are an excellent option for ketogenic and low-carb diets. They are also packed with essential minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, and zinc, along with a generous dose of magnesium—ideal for supporting bone health and easing muscle cramps.

16. Kola nuts

Kola nuts are the seeds of the kola tree, a member of the Cola genus, which thrives in the lush rainforests of West Africa and is also cultivated in other tropical regions. About the size of a chestnut, kola nuts have a distinctly bitter taste when chewed raw. They are often dried, ground into a powder, or used as an ingredient in beverages.

In West African cultures, kola nuts hold deep cultural significance. They are commonly used in social rituals, and religious ceremonies and as a gesture of hospitality, often presented to guests as a symbol of goodwill. Chewing kola nuts has a long history as a natural stimulant, helping to combat fatigue, suppress appetite, and enhance mental alertness.

Traditionally, kola nuts have also been valued for their medicinal properties. They have been used to alleviate headaches, aid digestion and address respiratory issues, underscoring their importance in both cultural and therapeutic practices.

17. Hickory nuts

Hickory nuts, the edible seeds of trees from the Carya genus, are a hidden gem among nuts, offering a rich, buttery flavour and an impressive nutritional profile. Native to North America and parts of Asia, these nuts are part of the walnut family (Juglandaceae). Encased in a hard shell and surrounded by a husk that naturally splits open when ripe, hickory nuts are a seasonal delight worth the effort to crack.

Nutritionally, hickory nuts are a powerhouse. They are rich in unsaturated fats, including heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and provide a concentrated source of energy, making them an ideal snack for an active lifestyle. Their high magnesium and phosphorus content support strong bones, while their fibre helps promote healthy digestion. Whether enjoyed raw, roasted, or incorporated into recipes, hickory nuts are a delicious way to add natural flavour and nutrients to your diet.

If you can get your hands on some hickory nuts, why not use them instead of walnuts in this charred broccoli, lemon & walnut pasta or walnut, date & honey cake?

18. Candlenuts

Candlenuts, scientifically known as Aleurites moluccanus, are a versatile tree nut commonly found in Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and parts of India. Renowned for their culinary, medicinal, and industrial applications, candlenuts are often likened to macadamia nuts in appearance but stand out for their exceptionally high oil content and distinctive flavour.

In cuisines such as Indonesian, Malaysian, and Polynesian, candlenuts are a key ingredient. They are used to thicken dishes, enrich spice blends like sambal and rendang, and are often roasted to enhance their flavour before being added to salads or sauces. However, it is essential to note that raw candlenuts are mildly toxic and must always be cooked before consumption, ensuring their rich, nutty taste is safe and delicious.

19. Lotus nuts

Lotus nuts, also known as fox nuts or makhana, are the edible seeds of the lotus plant (Nelumbo nucifera) and have been cherished in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine for centuries. With their light, crunchy texture and delicate flavour, lotus nuts are often roasted to create a wholesome snack or incorporated into various dishes.

Nutrient-dense and low in fat and calories, lotus nuts are an excellent choice for a healthy snack. They provide a good source of carbohydrates, protein and fibre, making them satisfying and nourishing. Packed with antioxidants, these seeds can help combat oxidative stress, potentially improving skin elasticity and reducing signs of ageing. They also contain amino acids that may support hair health, adding to their impressive list of benefits.

In Indian cuisine, lotus nuts are a popular addition to rich curries and gravies, where they lend texture and absorb the dish's flavours beautifully. They are also a key ingredient in desserts like kheer, offering a subtle crunch and nutty flavour to sweet treats.

20. Ginkgo nuts

Ginkgo nuts, the seeds of the ancient ginkgo tree (Ginkgo biloba), hail from one of the oldest living tree species on Earth, often dubbed a "living fossil." These seeds are encased in a fleshy, fruit-like layer that emits a pungent odour when ripe. Once processed, the seeds reveal a smooth, hard shell that protects the edible kernel inside. Ginkgo nuts are a prized ingredient in traditional Asian cuisines, featuring prominently in Chinese, Japanese and Korean dishes.

Renowned for its association with brain health, Ginkgo biloba is often celebrated for its antioxidant properties. While the tree’s leaves have been extensively studied, the nuts are traditionally believed to support cognitive function, respiratory health, and ailments such as asthma and coughs, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine.

In the kitchen, ginkgo nuts are often added to congee or soups, where their mild, nutty flavour enhances the dish. They are also a delightful addition to desserts like mooncakes, lending a subtle texture and a touch of tradition to these sweet treats.

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