What are Cashews?

Cashews, like all nuts, are a good source of protein and healthy unsaturated fat, which is especially important for vegans who might need extra protein in their diet. Cashews also contain beneficial amounts of iron and vitamin E.

Blended to a creamy puree, cashews make a decadent spread, while whole cashews are a tasty snack and the perfect addition to your favorite recipes.

Cashew Selection and Storage

Cashews grow from the base of the cashews apple, an edible but tart apple most often used to make vinegar and liqueur. Cashew nuts are always sold shelled since they are a member of the same family as poison ivy, and the oil on their shells can produce an allergic reaction similar to that caused by contact with these toxic plants. Although some cashews are labeled raw, all commercially sold cashew nuts have been treated with heat to destroy and trace residue of the shell oil.

Always store cashews in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The last two to four weeks at room temperature, up to six months in the refrigerator, and one year in the freezer.

Cashew Recipe Suggestion

Cashews make a fantastic snack on their own, but they can also be used in various dishes. Toss a handful into your favorite stir-fry, salad, or pasta dish just before serving, or pour melted dark chocolate over small piles of cashews and let stand until set for a quick salty-sweet treat.

Ground cashews can also be used as a filling for raw vegan cheesecakes.

Bon appetite!