Sütikut

Sütikut is a term sometimes used to refer to the Siberian pine nut, the edible seed of the Siberian stone pine (Pinus sibirica). This conifer is native to Siberia, particularly the Ural Mountains, Altai Mountains, and the Siberian Plateau. The nuts are small, oblong, and have a creamy white kernel encased in a hard, dark brown shell. They are a valuable food source in their native regions, often collected from wild trees.

The harvesting of sütikut is typically done by hand, with cones gathered from the forest floor or directly from trees. The cones are then dried, which causes them to open and release the nuts. Traditionally, Siberians have used various methods to extract the nuts, including pounding the cones. The nuts themselves can be eaten raw, roasted, or used in a variety of culinary applications. They are a good source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Sütikut is also processed into products like pine nut oil and pine nut milk. Pine nut oil, extracted from the kernels, is highly prized for its nutritional content and delicate flavor. Pine nut milk is a dairy-free alternative made by blending the nuts with water. The flavor of sütikut is often described as rich, buttery, and slightly sweet, making it a popular ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes, as well as a standalone snack. The term "sütikut" itself may have regional or dialectal origins within the areas where the Siberian pine nut is consumed.