What Are Cashews?
Cashews (Anacardium occidentale) are kidney-shaped seeds from a tree native to South America; each develops as a single shelled seed at the tip of the fleshy fruit called a cashew apple.
Compared with other nuts, they have a softer, creamier texture and a mildly sweet flavor. They are rarely eaten raw and are usually roasted or lightly fried because the unprocessed shell contains an irritating resin.
Cashew Nutrition Facts
Cashews are energy-dense nuts; 100 g contains about 553 kcal, 18.2 g of protein, and 43.8 g of fat. They are also considered a good source of minerals such as copper, magnesium, and zinc.
What Are the Benefits of Cashews?
The monounsaturated fats and minerals in cashews are notable components of a balanced diet. Their copper and magnesium content has made them the subject of various studies; these findings have not yet become a definitive health recommendation.
This is general information; cashews are food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Because they are calorie-dense, a daily handful (about 20–30 g) is recommended.
How to Choose Cashews
Quality cashews should have a uniform creamy-white color and be firm and unbroken.
- Yellowed or darkened pieces are a sign of age.
- Do not eat them if they smell bitter or moldy when you open the package.
- Packages with a high proportion of broken pieces are generally lower quality.
How to Store Cashews
Because cashews are high in fat, they become rancid quickly at room temperature. They stay fresh for 4–6 months in the refrigerator or up to 1 year in the freezer when stored in an airtight container.
How to Use Cashews in Cooking
Cashews are used as a snack, raw or roasted; in stir-fries in East Asian cuisines; as a milk and cream alternative in vegan recipes; and in desserts and cookies.
How to Make Vegan Cashew Cream
Soak raw cashews in water for a few hours or overnight, then drain them. Blend with a little water in a food processor until smooth; season with salt and lemon and use as a cheese or cream alternative.
How to Roast Cashews
Roast raw cashews in a dry pan or in a 160°C / 320°F oven for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden.
What Recipes Use Cashews?
Cashew stir-fry, vegan cashew cream, cashew cookies, sweet-and-savory snack mixes, and Thai and Indian dishes are among the best-known uses of cashews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat cashews raw?
Cashews sold on the market are generally processed and lightly heat-treated because the natural shell contains an irritating resin; in this form, they can be eaten safely.
Can cashews make you gain weight?
Cashews are high in calories and fat; eating them in excess can upset daily calorie balance. With portion control, they can be part of a balanced diet.
Why are cashews used in vegan cooking?
When soaked in water and blended, they develop a creamy, neutral texture, so they are often used as a plant-based alternative to dairy in sauces, creams, and cheese recipes.
Can you be allergic to cashews?
Cashews are among the tree nuts that can cause allergies; people with a sensitivity are advised to consult a doctor before eating them.
Why are cashews more expensive than other nuts?
The irritating resin in the shell makes processing laborious and time-consuming, which increases their cost compared with other nuts.