Pistou – the Cousin of Pesto — Culinary Seasons

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Pistou – the Cousin of Pesto, may not be a condiment that you are accustomed to hearing about. Pistou is very similar to pesto as it contains garlic, basil, olive oil. The main difference is that Pistou is finished with where as Pesto which is finished with Parmesan and Pine Nuts.

Where Pesto comes from Italy, the French Pistou comes from the southeastern most region of Province. Nestled on the Mediterranean next to Italy’s Liguria region.

General areas of both France and Italy regions referenced.

Pesto vs Pistou

Pesto comes from Genovese Italian meaning to pound or crush. The definition of pesto leaves the ingredients open to interpretation. Recipes tracing back to Roman times have included variations of recipes. Pasta alla Genovese is a classic pesto pasta from the region of Genoa/Liguria. Take a look at the recipe for Basil Pesto.

The word Pistou comes from Provençal dialect of Occitan, meaning pounded. Being neighboring regions of both countries, it makes sense that he foods of both regions intermingled.

The region of Provence has a traditional soup called Soupe au Pistou which is similar to Italian Minestrone. This is a vegetarian soup with a mix of carrots, potatoes, beans, peas, squash and orzo pasta with pistou added to give a fresh basil garlic flavor.

Dairy Free and Nut Free!

Pistou doesn’t have nuts or parmesan it is a great alternative for those who have allergies or intolerances. As an alternative, try making Pistou in a food processor try making it with a mortar and pestle. It will give the finished pistou an oiler finish to the sauce. In the mortar and pestle, first grind the garlic. Add some of the basil to the mortar and pestle and grind the basil to break down. Adding in increments may be best to keep it manageable.

Enjoy!

Basil Pistou

Servings: 12 ounces

Author: Chef Tony Zentgraf

Pistou is nothing more than a puree or a rough ground mix of basil, garlic and olive oil with a pinch of salt. Great option if you need to have a nut free option. Also great if you want to be dairy free as well.

Print Recipe Great Nut Free Alternative to Pesto

• If you are looking for the pesto taste without the nuts add the parmesan cheese instead of the Kosher salt.  

Great Dairy Free Style Pesto Too!

• Make the Pistou the traditional method, it does not include nuts or cheese.