15 Best Dry Fruits in Pakistan: Benefits, Local Names, Taste and How to Choose

Dry fruits have long been part of Pakistani households. They are served to guests, added to traditional desserts, enjoyed during winter and used as convenient snacks throughout the year.

However, choosing the best dry fruits in Pakistan is not always straightforward. Almonds may be suitable for everyday snacking, walnuts provide a rich and earthy flavour, while dried apricots, figs and raisins offer natural sweetness.

The right option depends on your taste, dietary needs, budget and intended use.

This guide compares 15 popular Pakistani dry fruits according to:

• English and local names

• Taste and texture

• Important nutrients

• Common uses

• Approximate prices in Pakistan

• Quality indicators

• Storage requirements

You can also explore the complete BODF collection of dry fruits sourced from Baltistan and other selected regions.

What Are Dry Fruits?

In everyday Pakistani usage, the term “dry fruits” includes two related food groups:

1. Naturally dried fruits, such as raisins, dried apricots, figs, dates, prunes and dried mulberries.

2. Nuts and edible seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios, cashews and chilgoza.

Although nuts and dried fruits are botanically different, they are commonly sold and consumed together in Pakistan.

Nuts generally provide protein, fats, fibre and minerals. Dried fruits usually provide carbohydrates, natural sugars, fibre and minerals in a concentrated form because much of the fruit’s water has been removed. Nuts and dried fruits can both be included in a balanced diet when portions are appropriate.

Which Dry Fruit Is Best?

There is no single dry fruit that is best for everyone.

Your best choice depends on what you need:

• For an everyday nut: almonds

• For a rich, earthy flavour: walnuts

• For natural sweetness: dates, raisins or mulberries

• For a soft and tangy snack: dried apricots

• For a premium gift: chilgoza, pistachios or cashews

• For adding to desserts: raisins, almonds and pistachios

• For a convenient variety: a mixed dry fruit pack

• For a budget-friendly choice: peanuts or raisins

• For a traditional Baltistan product: dried apricots, walnuts or mulberries

Instead of relying on one food, a mixture of different nuts and dried fruits usually provides better variety in flavour, texture and nutrients.

Quick Comparison of the Best Dry Fruits in Pakistan

The following prices are broad estimates for approximately 500 grams. Actual prices vary by grade, origin, season, processing method, shell weight and seller.

Current BODF prices in July 2026 include almonds from approximately Rs.1,100 per 500g, walnuts from Rs.750, dried mulberries from Rs.550, dried apricots from Rs.599–750 and dried black cherries from Rs.1,050. Prices and availability can change, so customers should always check the live product page before ordering.

1. Almonds or Badam

English name: Almonds
Urdu name: بادام
Roman Urdu: Badam

Almonds are among the most popular dry fruits in Pakistan. They have a mild nutty flavour, firm texture and wide range of uses.

They can be eaten raw, soaked overnight, lightly roasted or chopped into milk, kheer, halwa and baked products.

A typical one-ounce serving of almonds provides protein, fibre and predominantly unsaturated fats. Almonds are also recognised as a source of vitamin E. Because they are energy-dense, a modest handful is usually more practical than eating a large quantity at once.

Best uses for almonds

• Eat raw as a convenient snack

• Soak overnight for a softer texture

• Add to milk and smoothies

• Chop into kheer and halwa

• Use in cakes, biscuits and granola

• Add to a homemade dry fruit mix

How to choose quality almonds

Fresh almonds should:

• Smell mild and nutty

• Feel firm rather than soft

• Have no visible mould or insect damage

• Taste clean rather than bitter or rancid

• Be stored in sealed, moisture-resistant packaging

BODF offers premium almonds sourced from Baltistan as well as thin-shelled Kagazi Badam.

Recommended future internal link: Almonds or Badam Complete Guide: Benefits, Types and Uses

2. Walnuts or Akhrot

English name: Walnuts
Urdu name: اخروٹ
Roman Urdu: Akhrot

Walnuts have a rich, earthy flavour and a softer crunch than almonds. Their distinctive shape and strong taste make them popular for both snacking and baking.

Walnuts contain polyunsaturated fats and are commonly used as an alternative to heavily processed snack foods. However, they are calorie-dense, so reasonable portions remain important.

Best uses for walnuts

• Eat raw in small portions

• Add to cakes and brownies

• Mix into oatmeal or yoghurt

• Sprinkle over salads

• Add to kheer or traditional desserts

• Blend into walnut milk or smoothies

How to identify fresh walnuts

Fresh walnut kernels normally have:

• A clean, naturally nutty aroma

• A firm but not excessively dry texture

• A light brown or golden-brown appearance

• No sour, paint-like or rancid smell

Walnuts contain delicate natural oils. Once shelled, they should be kept in an airtight container away from heat and sunlight.

Explore BODF Akhrot or walnuts sourced from Baltistan.

Recommended future internal link: Walnuts or Akhrot: Benefits, Types, Storage and Quality Guide

3. Dried Apricots or Khubani

English name: Dried apricots
Urdu name: خشک خوبانی
Roman Urdu: Khushk Khubani

Dried apricots are one of the most recognisable dry fruits associated with Gilgit-Baltistan. They offer a pleasant balance of natural sweetness and acidity.

Different apricot varieties can produce different colours, flavours and textures. Naturally sun-dried apricots may appear darker or less uniform than brightly coloured commercially treated apricots.

Dried apricots provide fibre and potassium and contain carotenoid plant compounds. Like other dried fruits, they are more concentrated than fresh apricots and should be eaten in suitable portions.

Best uses for dried apricots

• Eat as a chewy snack

• Soak in water for a softer texture

• Add to breakfast cereal

• Mix into trail mix

• Use in chutney and compote

• Add to cakes and traditional desserts

Natural versus sulphur-treated apricots

Sulphur treatment can help preserve a brighter colour and extend shelf life. Untreated apricots are often darker because of natural oxidation.

Colour alone does not determine quality. Buyers should also consider:

• Aroma

• Texture

• Cleanliness

• Origin

• Added ingredients

• Storage conditions

BODF offers multiple options, including:

• Halman Dried Apricots with Seed

• Seedless Halman Dried Apricots

• Dried Apricots Without Sulphur

Recommended future internal link: Dried Apricots or Khubani: Complete Baltistan Guide

4. Dried Mulberries or Shahtoot

English name: Mulberries
Urdu name: شہتوت
Roman Urdu: Shahtoot

Dried mulberries have a naturally sweet flavour and a pleasantly chewy texture. White mulberries are widely enjoyed in northern Pakistan and are often dried for use outside the short fresh-fruit season.

They can be eaten on their own or combined with nuts to balance their sweetness.

Best uses for dried mulberries

• Eat directly as a snack

• Add to oats and cereal

• Mix with almonds and walnuts

• Use in granola

• Add to yoghurt

• Blend into smoothies

• Use in baked products

How to select dried mulberries

Look for mulberries that:

• Have a naturally sweet aroma

• Are dry but not burnt or excessively hard

• Show no visible mould

• Have no unnecessary coating or artificial flavour

• Are stored in sealed packaging

Explore BODF dried Shahtoot or white mulberries from Baltistan.

Recommended future internal link: Dried Mulberries or Shahtoot: Benefits, Taste and Uses

5. Raisins or Kishmish

English name: Raisins
Urdu name: کشمش
Roman Urdu: Kishmish

Raisins are dried grapes. Their small size, natural sweetness and long shelf life make them one of the most practical dry fruits for Pakistani households.

They are available in multiple varieties, including golden, green, brown and black raisins. Taste and texture can vary according to grape variety and drying method.

Best uses for raisins

• Add to kheer and custard

• Use in pulao and biryani

• Mix into oatmeal

• Add to cakes and biscuits

• Combine with nuts

• Use as a natural sweet component in trail mix

Raisins are naturally high in carbohydrates because the sugars from grapes become concentrated during drying. Portion size therefore matters, particularly for people managing their total carbohydrate intake.

6. Dried Cherries

English name: Dried cherries
Common Pakistani name: Khushk Cherry

Dried cherries have a stronger sweet-and-tangy flavour than raisins. They work particularly well for customers who want a dried fruit with noticeable acidity.

When shopping, read the ingredients carefully. Some commercial dried cherries contain added sugar, oil, colours or flavouring, while naturally dried versions may have a more intense fruit flavour and less uniform appearance.

Best uses for dried cherries

• Add to oatmeal

• Mix with yoghurt

• Use in cakes and cookies

• Combine with dark chocolate

• Add to dry fruit mixes

• Eat as a chewy fruit snack

BODF offers dried black cherries from Baltistan, prepared without added sugar or artificial flavours according to the current product description.

7. Dried Figs or Anjeer

English name: Dried figs
Urdu name: انجیر
Roman Urdu: Anjeer

Dried figs have a naturally sweet flavour, soft-chewy texture and many tiny edible seeds. They are commonly eaten directly or soaked in water overnight.

Dried figs provide fibre and minerals such as potassium and calcium. Because their sugars are concentrated, small portions are generally sufficient.

Best uses for dried figs

• Eat directly

• Soak overnight

• Chop into oatmeal

• Add to desserts

• Blend into smoothies

• Combine with walnuts

• Use in energy bites

BODF currently lists sun-dried Anjeer within its dry fruit collection.

8. Chilgoza or Pine Nuts

English name: Pine nuts
Local name: Chilgoza
Urdu: چلغوزہ

Chilgoza is one of the most premium dry fruits sold in Pakistan. It has a delicate, buttery flavour and a softer bite than almonds or pistachios.

Its high price is influenced by limited supply, difficult harvesting, seasonal availability, processing and demand.

Best uses for chilgoza

• Eat roasted as a premium snack

• Add to rice dishes

• Sprinkle over desserts

• Include in gift boxes

• Use in nut-based sauces

• Combine with other premium nuts

When purchasing chilgoza, check the shell, aroma and kernel freshness. Old pine nuts can develop an unpleasant or stale taste.

9. Cashews or Kaju

English name: Cashews
Urdu name: کاجو
Roman Urdu: Kaju

Cashews have a creamy texture and mildly sweet flavour. They are widely used in desserts, savoury dishes and premium dry fruit gift boxes.

Cashews contain protein, fats and minerals such as copper and magnesium. They can be eaten plain or lightly roasted.

Best uses for cashews

• Eat roasted or plain

• Add to kheer

• Use in curries and gravies

• Blend into cashew paste

• Add to cakes

• Include in premium dry fruit mixtures

Choose whole or mostly whole cashews with a clean cream colour, firm texture and no oily or stale smell.

10. Pistachios or Pista

English name: Pistachios
Urdu name: پستہ
Roman Urdu: Pista

Pistachios are valued for their green kernels, pleasant crunch and slightly sweet taste. They are frequently used in Pakistani sweets, ice cream, kheer and gift boxes.

Best uses for pistachios

• Eat as a roasted snack

• Garnish kheer and firni

• Add to kulfi and ice cream

• Use in baklava

• Add to cakes and biscuits

• Include in gift packs

Salted pistachios can contain significant sodium, so unsalted or lightly salted options may be preferable for routine use.

11. Dates or Khajoor

English name: Dates
Urdu name: کھجور
Roman Urdu: Khajoor

Dates are naturally sweet fruits with a soft, chewy texture. Pakistan’s market includes multiple local and imported varieties, ranging from economical everyday dates to premium varieties such as Ajwa and Medjool.

Best uses for dates

• Eat directly

• Fill with almonds or walnuts

• Add to milkshakes

• Blend into energy balls

• Use as a sweet ingredient in desserts

• Chop into oatmeal

Dates provide carbohydrates, fibre and potassium. Because they are naturally concentrated in sugar, portion size should be considered.

12. Dried Plums, Aloo Bukhara or Prunes

English name: Dried plums or prunes
Urdu name: خشک آلو بخارا
Roman Urdu: Khushk Aloo Bukhara

Aloo Bukhara means plum. When suitable plum varieties are dried, they are commonly called prunes in English.

Dried Aloo Bukhara has a sweet, tangy flavour and chewy texture. It can be eaten directly, soaked in water or used in traditional Pakistani cooking.

Best uses for dried Aloo Bukhara

• Eat as a chewy snack

• Soak in water

• Use in chutney

• Add to meat dishes

• Use in sauces

• Add to desserts or cereals

BODF offers Dry Aloo Bukhara or Prunes from Baltistan.

Recommended future internal link: Aloo Bukhara in English: Plum vs Prune, Benefits and Uses

13. Apricot Kernels

English name: Apricot kernels
Local name: Khubani ki giri
Urdu: خوبانی کی گری

Apricot kernels are the seeds found inside apricot stones. They may taste sweet, almond-like or strongly bitter, depending on the apricot variety.

They must not be treated like ordinary almonds.

Bitter apricot kernels can contain amygdalin, which may release cyanide when chewed or digested. European food-safety authorities warn that even a small number of raw kernels can exceed safe cyanide exposure levels. Apricot kernels should never be promoted as a treatment for cancer or another medical condition.

Important safety guidance

• Do not consume unidentified bitter kernels

• Do not give raw kernels to children

• Do not eat large quantities

• Follow recognised food-safety guidance

• Do not use them as a replacement for medical treatment

• Consult a qualified professional when uncertain

BODF currently offers apricot kernels from Baltistan, but the product’s usage instructions and health claims should remain conservative and safety-led.

14. Dried Peaches or Khushk Aaru

English name: Dried peaches
Urdu name: خشک آڑو
Roman Urdu: Khushk Aaru

Dried peaches offer a sweet, fruity and slightly tangy taste. They may be soft and pliable or firmer, depending on moisture content and drying method.

Best uses for dried peaches

• Eat as a fruit snack

• Add to porridge

• Use in baking

• Prepare fruit compote

• Add to yoghurt

• Mix with almonds and walnuts

Check whether sugar, preservatives or artificial colours have been added. Naturally dried peaches may have a darker and less uniform appearance.

15. Peanuts or Moong Phali

English name: Peanuts
Urdu name: مونگ پھلی
Roman Urdu: Moong Phali

Peanuts are technically legumes rather than tree nuts, but they are commonly included in the Pakistani dry fruit category.

They are one of the most affordable options and provide a crunchy texture, protein and fats.

Best uses for peanuts

• Eat roasted

• Add to trail mix

• Make peanut brittle

• Add to salads

• Blend into peanut butter

• Use in savoury snacks

People with peanut allergies must avoid peanuts and foods that may contain peanut traces.

Best Dry Fruits According to Purpose

Best dry fruits for everyday snacking

• Almonds

• Walnuts

• Pistachios

• Peanuts

• Dried apricots

Best naturally sweet dry fruits

• Dates

• Raisins

• Mulberries

• Dried figs

• Dried cherries

Best premium dry fruits for gifting

• Chilgoza

• Pistachios

• Cashews

• Almonds

• Walnuts

Best dry fruits for Pakistani desserts

• Almonds

• Pistachios

• Raisins

• Cashews

• Dates

Best dry fruits from Baltistan

• Halman dried apricots

• Walnuts

• Almonds

• White mulberries

• Dried black cherries

• Dried Aloo Bukhara

• Apricot kernels

How to Choose High-Quality Dry Fruits in Pakistan

Price should not be the only consideration. A cheaper product may contain broken pieces, excess shell weight, old stock, added sugar or poor-quality packaging.

1. Check the aroma

Fresh nuts should have a clean, mild and naturally nutty smell.

Avoid products that smell:

• Sour

• Musty

• Damp

• Paint-like

• Excessively oily

2. Inspect colour carefully

Natural colour varies by variety and processing method.

Very bright colour does not automatically mean better quality. Some naturally dried fruits become brown or darker during drying.

Look for:

• Consistency with natural variation

• No unusual black or green mould spots

• No artificial-looking coating

• No excessive surface moisture

3. Examine the texture

Different products require different textures:

• Almonds should be firm and crisp

• Walnuts should be firm but not rock-hard

• Dried apricots should be chewy

• Mulberries should be dry but not burnt

• Figs should be soft-chewy rather than wet

• Raisins should be pliable rather than sticky and leaking

4. Read the ingredients

A single-ingredient product should ideally contain only the nut or dried fruit.

Check for:

• Added sugar

• Artificial flavouring

• Excess salt

• Added oil

• Sulphites

• Preservatives

• Artificial colour

Sulphites are not automatically a sign of poor quality, but they should be declared so customers can make an informed choice.

5. Compare prices by usable weight

For walnuts and almonds, determine whether the listed weight includes shells.

A 500g pack with shells cannot be compared directly with 500g of kernels.

Also compare:

• Whole versus broken pieces

• Local versus imported products

• Premium versus standard grade

• Seeded versus seedless fruit

• Natural versus treated fruit

6. Check the packaging

Good packaging should protect dry fruits from:

• Moisture

• Heat

• Dust

• Insects

• Strong surrounding odours

• Direct sunlight

Dried fruits can be vulnerable to mould when moisture enters the packaging. The FDA notes that dried fruits are among the foods susceptible to moulds capable of producing harmful mycotoxins, which makes clean processing and dry storage important.

7. Buy according to your actual usage

Do not automatically purchase the largest pack.

Buy smaller packs when:

• Trying a product for the first time

• Household consumption is low

• Storage conditions are warm

• You want maximum freshness

Buy larger packs when:

• The product is consumed regularly

• You have airtight storage

• The larger pack offers meaningful value

• Several family members will use it

Organic Dry Fruits in Pakistan: What Should Buyers Check?

Many sellers use words such as “organic,” “natural,” “pure” and “chemical-free.” These terms should be supported by transparent information rather than used only as marketing language.

Before buying organic dry fruits in Pakistan, consider asking:

• Where was the product grown?

• Was it locally produced or imported?

• Were pesticides or chemical treatments used?

• Was sugar added during processing?

• Was sulphur used?

• How was it dried?

• How was it cleaned?

• Is any recognised organic certification available?

• When was it packed?

• How should it be stored?

Traditional cultivation and natural drying can be valuable, but they are not automatically equivalent to formal organic certification.

How Much Dry Fruit Should You Eat?

Dry fruits and nuts are concentrated foods, so small portions can provide substantial energy.

A practical portion will depend on:

• The specific food

• Your total diet

• Age and activity level

• Medical conditions

• Energy requirements

• Whether the food contains added salt or sugar

As a general reference, the NHS describes approximately 30g as a portion of dried fruit. Because dried fruit is sticky and naturally high in sugar, it recommends consuming it with meals rather than repeatedly between meals to reduce its effect on dental health.

A small handful is also a practical starting portion for nuts. Nuts should ideally replace less nutritious snacks rather than simply being added in unlimited quantities to an existing diet.

People with diabetes, kidney disease, allergies, digestive conditions or medically prescribed diets should seek individual guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Are Dry Fruits Good for Children?

Age-appropriate nuts and dried fruits can be included in a child’s balanced diet, but safety is essential.

Consider the following:

• Whole nuts can be a choking hazard for young children

• Dried fruits can be sticky and affect teeth

• Nut allergies can be serious

• Portions should be suitable for the child’s age

• Hard or large pieces may need to be chopped or ground

• Raw apricot kernels should not be given to children

Parents should follow professional feeding guidance based on the child’s age and medical history.

How to Store Dry Fruits in Pakistan

Pakistan’s heat and humidity can reduce the shelf life of nuts and dried fruits.

Use airtight containers

Once a pack has been opened, transfer the contents to a clean, dry and airtight food-grade container.

Keep away from heat

Do not store dry fruits:

• Next to the stove

• Near a sunny window

• Inside a hot vehicle

• Beside appliances that release heat

Protect from moisture

Always use a dry spoon or clean hands. Moisture can encourage mould and cause dried fruits to become sticky.

Refrigerate delicate nuts

Walnuts, chilgoza and other high-fat nuts may remain fresh longer when refrigerated in sealed containers, especially during hot weather.

Label larger packs

Write the opening date on the container and consume older stock before opening a new pack.

Why Choose Dry Fruits from Baltistan?

Baltistan is known for mountain valleys where apricot, walnut, almond, mulberry, cherry and plum trees form an important part of local agriculture and food traditions.

Regional dry fruits are valued for:

• Distinctive local varieties

• Traditional orchard cultivation

• Sun-drying practices

• Seasonal harvesting

• Regional flavours

• Direct links with farming communities

BODF focuses on making selected products from Baltistan available to customers across Pakistan. Current products include almonds, walnuts, Halman apricots, mulberries, dried cherries, dried plums and assorted packs.

Try Different Dry Fruits in One Pack

Customers who cannot decide which dry fruit is best can begin with a mixed pack.

A balanced mix may include:

• Almonds

• Walnuts

• Dried apricots

• Raisins

• Mulberries

• Cashews

• Pistachios

• Seeds

The Baltistan Dry Fruit Mix combines selected dry fruits in one convenient pack for snacking, serving guests or gifting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which are the best dry fruits in Pakistan?

Some of the best and most popular dry fruits in Pakistan include almonds, walnuts, dried apricots, raisins, figs, pistachios, cashews, dates, chilgoza and dried mulberries. The best choice depends on taste, budget and intended use.

Which dry fruit is healthiest?

No single dry fruit is universally the healthiest. Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, dried apricots, figs and raisins provide different nutrients. Eating a varied selection in suitable portions is generally more useful than relying on only one type.

Which dry fruit is best for daily use?

Almonds and walnuts are practical for daily use because they are easy to portion and combine with meals. Raisins and dried apricots are also convenient, but their natural sugars are more concentrated.

Which dry fruit is best in winter?

Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts, dates and mixed dry fruits are especially popular during winter in Pakistan. However, they can be consumed throughout the year when stored correctly.

What are the most expensive dry fruits in Pakistan?

Chilgoza is commonly among the most expensive dry fruits in Pakistan. Premium pistachios, cashews, imported dates and high-grade figs can also be costly.

What are the most affordable dry fruits in Pakistan?

Peanuts, raisins and some local dried apricots are often more affordable than chilgoza, pistachios and cashews.

Are dried fruits naturally high in sugar?

Dried fruits contain naturally occurring fruit sugar in a concentrated form because much of their water has been removed. Products with added sugar contain even more, so checking the ingredient list is important.

Should dried fruits be washed before eating?

This depends on how the product was processed and packaged. Loose market products may require careful cleaning, while ready-to-eat sealed products should be used according to the seller’s instructions. Any washed product should be dried properly before being stored again.

What is Aloo Bukhara called in English?

Fresh Aloo Bukhara is called plum in English. A dried plum is commonly called a prune.

What is Shahtoot called in English?

Shahtoot is called mulberry in English. Dried white mulberries are commonly produced in parts of northern Pakistan.

What is Kishmish called in English?

Kishmish is called raisins in English. Raisins are grapes that have been dried naturally or through controlled commercial methods.

Where can I buy organic dry fruits in Pakistan?

Customers can order selected organic and naturally sourced dry fruits online from BODF, with delivery available across Pakistan. Buyers should review each product’s origin, ingredients, processing method, pack size and live price before purchasing.

Final Thoughts

The best dry fruits in Pakistan are not limited to the most expensive products.

Almonds and walnuts are versatile everyday choices. Dried apricots and mulberries represent important flavours of Baltistan. Raisins and dates provide natural sweetness, while pistachios, cashews and chilgoza work well for premium gifting.

The most important factors are:

• Freshness

• Natural aroma

• Proper texture

• Transparent ingredients

• Clean packaging

• Suitable storage

• Trusted sourcing

• Fair price according to grade and usable weight

Instead of selecting dry fruits only by price or appearance, compare their origin, processing, flavour and intended use.

Explore BODF’s complete range of dry fruits in Pakistan or begin with the Baltistan Dry Fruit Mix to enjoy several flavours in one convenient pack.

This article is for general educational purposes and does not replace individual medical or dietary advice.