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Cashews

Cashews are a common addition to Indian dishes, such as curries and rice.

Related to the pistachio, cashews are said to have originated in Brazil, although they are now mainly grown in India and Africa, with India producing 90% of the world’s cashew crop. Cashew nuts are always removed from their shells, known as “apples,” and treated to remove a caustic oil that is natural to the cashew. For that reason, cashew nuts are always sold shelled and dried. Even so-called “raw” cashews have actually been roasted to remove this toxic resin.

Varieties

The most common variety of cashews is grown in India. Cashews are the edible seeds of a tropical and subtropical evergreen tree of the species Anarcardium occidentale. The species is related to the poison sumac and is native to Central and South America. It was brought to India and East Africa during the 1400s by Portuguese missionaries. The author could find no reference to other varieties. So, it seems that although it is grown in various parts of the world, the cashew is essentially a singular variety.

Buying and storing tips

Cashews spoil quickly at room temperature and should be refrigerated. If refrigerated in a tightly sealed container, they will keep for six months or up to a year if frozen.

Availability

Cashew nuts are available year-round. They are sold “raw” and roasted, salted and unsalted, and in bulk or vacuum-sealed jars or cans.

Preparation, uses, and tips

Cashew nuts can be eaten as snacks or used in combination with other foods such as salads and desserts. They are commonly added to Indian cooking, such as curries and rice dishes. When adding cashews to hot food, they should be added just before serving since they soften quickly when cooked.

Nutritional Highlights

Cashews (dry, roasted), 1 Tbsp
Calories: 49
Protein: 1.3g
Carbohydrate: 2.8g
Total fat: 3.9g
Fiber: 0.26g

Health benefits and concerns associated with nuts

Cancer (Prostate)

Alpha-linolenic acid is a fatty acid found in many foods. Most, but not all, studies have found that high dietary or blood levels of alpha-linolenic acid correlate with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Concentrations of alpha-linolenic acid are high in almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, flaxseed, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, peanuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts.

Health benefits and concerns for nuts and seeds
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other nuts and seeds. Read about health benefits and concerns for nuts and seeds for a full description.