Organic cashew nuts EKO PLANET, 250 g

Cashews are a type of nut that comes from the cashew tree scientifically known as Anacardium occidentale. The cashew tree is native to Brazil, but is now grown in various tropical regions around the world. Cashews are widely known for their distinctive kidney-shaped appearance and rich, buttery flavor.

Interesting! The nut itself is encased in a hard shell that contains a toxic oil known as urushiol. This oil can cause skin irritation similar to poison ivy, so cashews need to be handled carefully to make them safe to eat. Processing involves roasting or steaming the nuts to remove the poisonous oil. Finally, they are shelled and the kernel is eaten.

Organically grown cashews are a popular ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes, but are often enjoyed as a stand-alone snack. They can be enjoyed in many forms such as fresh, roasted, salted or used as an ingredient in cooking, baking and even dairy-free alternatives such as cashew milk and cashew cheese.

Nutritionally, cashews are a good source of healthy fats, protein, dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin E, vitamin K, and some B vitamins), and minerals (such as magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc). However, they are high in calories, so it is recommended to use them in moderation, especially for those who are watching their calorie intake.

Cashews are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways in both sweet and savory dishes. Here are some common ways to use cashews in cooking and baking:

Snacks: Enjoy cashews as a nutritious and filling snack. You can buy them roasted and salted or roast them at home for a savory flavor.

Cashew Butter: Make homemade cashew butter by blending roasted cashews in a food processor until they become a creamy spread. You can add salt or sweeteners like honey or maple syrup if you like.

Cooking: Cashews can be used in a variety of prepared dishes such as curries and pasta dishes. Nuts give sauces a rich and creamy texture. To use them, mash soaked cashews to make a creamy base, or add them directly to a dish for extra crunch and flavor.

"Cashew Milk": Soak cashews and mix them with water to create a creamy and nutritious milk alternative. This "cashew milk" can be used in smoothies, cereal, or recipes that call for milk.

Salads: Add roasted or toasted cashews to salads for a delicious, crunchy texture. Nuts enhance the flavor and texture of green and grain salads.

Baked goods: Add cashews to baked goods like cookies, muffins and granola bars for added texture and flavor. Cut them into desired size pieces and enjoy as a nutritious daily snack.

Desserts: Cashews are often used in vegan or dairy-free desserts. They can be mashed to create creamy fillings for cheesecakes, cakes and puddings. Cashews are also often used in raw desserts because of their natural creaminess.

Thai and Indian cuisine: Cashews are often used in Thai and Indian cooking to add flavor and creaminess to dishes such as cashew chicken, korma and various curries.

Homemade Dressings: Blend soaked cashews with water, herbs and spices for creamy salad dressings, pasta dressings and toppings.

Vegan cheese: Cashews can be made into dairy-free cheeses by mixing them with nutritional yeast, lemon juice and spices. This mixture can be molded and aged to achieve a cheese consistency.

An important thing to note when using cashews is that if the recipe calls for a uniform texture (such as sauces, creams or fillings), it is best to soak the cashews for several hours or even overnight before cooking. Soaking helps soften the cashews and makes them easier to mash to a creamy consistency.

Remember that cashews are high in calories, so it is advisable to consume them in moderation, especially if you are watching your calorie intake.