Cashew Paste
A naturally very creamy, mildly sweet paste made from ground cashews. Used in vegan creams, sauces and desserts; a tree nut allergen.
What Is Cashew Butter?
Cashew butter is a product made by grinding cashews into a creamy consistency. Thanks to the cashew's soft texture and high fat, it turns out creamier and smoother than many other nut butters.
It has a slightly sweet, neutral and rich taste. This creamy-neutral structure makes it valuable especially at the base of vegan creams, sauces and desserts; it is also used as a plain spread.
Nutritional Values of Cashew Butter
As a rich nut product, plain cashew butter contains around 580 kcal of energy per 100 grams with high fat, good protein and minerals. Values are approximate, based on a similar profile.
How Should Cashew Butter Be Consumed?
Cashew butter is a calorie-dense product; it is used in moderation. Its creamy structure adds texture even in a small amount; those allergic to tree nuts should not consume it.
This information is general; cashew butter is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Those with tree nut allergies should be careful.
How Is Cashew Butter Chosen?
Good cashew butter is predominantly cashew, light cream colored, smells fresh and is not rancid. Darkened, rancid-stale-smelling or unnecessarily additive-heavy products should not be preferred.
- Ingredient should be predominantly cashew, light cream in color
- Should smell fresh, not rancid
- Darkened-stale product should not be bought
How Is Cashew Butter Stored?
Cashew butter is stored in a sealed container, in a cool and dark place; its oil can separate to the top, so it should be stirred before use. Since oily products can turn rancid over time, the refrigerator can be preferred for long storage.
Using Cashew Butter in the Kitchen
Cashew butter is used mostly in vegan creamy sauces, “cheddar-like” vegan sauce, sweet creams and smoothies; it is also used as a bread spread. Its neutral-creamy structure makes it versatile in both savory and sweet recipes.
How Is Cashew Butter Made at Home?
Cashews that have been soaked and drained, or lightly roasted, are ground in a powerful food processor until they release their oil and become smooth-creamy. The variety made with soaked cashews is more pourable for sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is cashew butter widely used in vegan cooking?
Its naturally creamy and neutral structure makes it easy to create smooth sauces, creams and fillings without dairy; this is why it is a favorite ingredient in vegan recipes.
Who is cashew butter not suitable for?
Those allergic to cashews and other tree nuts should not consume cashew butter.
What does cashew butter taste like?
It has a slightly sweet, creamy and neutral taste; this is why it is easily used in both savory and sweet recipes.