Cashew Oil
Anacardium occidentaleA nut oil with a mildly sweet, nutty aroma, obtained by cold-pressing or refining cashews. Used in sautéing and salad dressings, with a moderately high smoke point.
What Is Cashew Oil?
Cashew oil is a nut oil obtained by cold-pressing or refining cashews. It may also be produced as a byproduct of cashew milk and cashew butter.
It is light golden yellow with a mildly sweet, nutty aroma; compared with almond or hazelnut oil, it has a more neutral flavor profile, so it pairs easily with different sauces.
Cashew Oil Nutrition Facts
Cashew oil provides approximately 880 kcal of energy per 100 g; nearly all of it is fat, primarily unsaturated fatty acids. Values vary with the degree of refining and are approximate.
How Should Cashew Oil Be Used?
Cashew oil is used in moderate amounts, like other oils, as part of a balanced diet.
This is general information. Cashew oil is an oil and is not a substitute for medical treatment. People with nut allergies should avoid cashew oil.
How to Choose Cashew Oil
Good cashew oil is clear, light golden yellow, and has a mildly nutty, sweet aroma, with no sediment or cloudiness.
- It should be clear and light golden yellow.
- It should have a mildly nutty, sweet aroma, not a bitter or sour smell.
- The label should clearly state whether it is cold-pressed or refined.
How to Store Cashew Oil
Cashew oil can be stored for months in a sealed bottle in a cool, dark cupboard; refrigerating it after opening delays rancidity.
How to Use Cashew Oil in the Kitchen
Cashew oil is used most often for sautéing, salad dressings, and baking; its neutral flavor makes it useful in both sweet and savory recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cashew oil the same as cashew butter?
No. Cashew butter is made by grinding whole cashews (including the oil and solids), while cashew oil is only the extracted oil.
Is cashew oil available in Türkiye?
It is not widely available; it may be found at gourmet markets and retailers that sell nut oils online.
Is cashew oil suitable for high-heat frying?
It has a moderately high smoke point, but less expensive neutral oils are generally preferred for deep-frying; cashew oil is used more often for sautéing and finishing.