National Cashew Day

Celebrating the Crunchy Delight: National Cashew Day on November 23rd

Originating from Brazil, the cashew traveled to India and East Africa during the 16th century, courtesy of Portuguese explorers. Today, these nuts are savored worldwide, both for their rich flavor and their impressive array of health benefits, such as heart-protective healthy fats and antioxidants.

The Versatility of Cashews: From Snacks to Sauces

1. Roasted and Salted: The simplest and most classic way to enjoy cashews is roasted with a hint of salt. Perfect for snacking or adding to trail mixes.
2. Cashew Milk: A favorite in the vegan community, cashew milk is creamy and offers a delightful alternative to dairy. It’s ideal for coffees, cereals, and cooking.
3. Cashew Cheese: For those avoiding dairy, cashews provide an amazing base for plant-based cheeses, achieving a creamy texture and rich taste.
4. Cashew Butter: A twist on the traditional nut butter, cashew butter is smooth, rich, and can be spread on toast, added to smoothies, or used in baking.
5. Sauces and Curries: Cashews are a mainstay in Indian and Thai cuisines. Ground into a paste, they add thickness and richness to curries and gravies.
6. Desserts: From cashew-based cheesecakes to cashew fudge (Kaju Katli), this nut finds its way into a myriad of desserts, offering a unique texture and flavor.
7. Cashew Apple: While the nut is famous worldwide, the cashew apple (from which the nut dangles) is used in many countries to make jams and beverages.

Tips for Cashew Lovers

• Storage: Cashews contain a high amount of oil, making them susceptible to rancidity. Store them in a cool, dark place, preferably in an airtight container.
• Soaking: Before using them in recipes, especially for milks or cheeses, soak cashews for several hours to soften them and achieve the best texture.

As National Cashew Day approaches, take a moment to experiment with this versatile nut. Whether you’re adding them to your dishes or snacking straight from the bag, cashews are a testament to nature’s culinary wonders.