Nut | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Cashew

Anacardium occidentale Allergens: Tree Nuts
cashew

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Anacardiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global, South Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round (harvested seasonally, widely available dried)
  • Source Cashew Tree

The Forktionary Angle

"The nut that does it all – from snacking to sauces."

Definition

A kidney-shaped tree nut prized for its buttery flavor, creamy texture, and versatility in sweet and savory dishes.

Sensory Profile

TasteButtery, Sweet, Mild, Creamy
TextureCrunchy (raw/roasted), Creamy (blended), Firm
AromaNutty, Earthy, Mildly Sweet
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Production (Top 3)

Vietnam, India, Côte d'Ivoire

Nutrient Density

Rich in copper, magnesium, zinc

Shelf Life (Airtight)

Up to 6 months (room temp), 1 year (refrigerated)

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g
Calories553 kcal
Total Fat43.8g
Saturated Fat7.8g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein18.2g
Total Carbohydrate30.2g
Dietary Fiber3.3g
Total Sugars5.9g
Calcium37mg
Iron6.7mg
Potassium660mg

Chef’s Secret

Soaking cashews overnight softens them, making them ideal for blending into creamy sauces, dips, and dairy-free alternatives.

Substitutions

Best Match

Almonds

1:1

Good all-around substitute for crunch and mild flavor, less creamy.

Macadamia Nuts

1:1

Excellent for creamy texture and rich, buttery flavor, more expensive.

Pistachios

1:1

Offers distinct color and flavor, good for baking and garnishing.

Sunflower Seeds

1:1

Nut-free alternative for crunch and a mild, earthy taste.

Buying Guide

Look for whole, unblemished cashews. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to prevent rancidity.

Flavor Pairings

Curries stir-fries salads desserts vegan cheeses nut butter.

Recipes Using Cashew

Vegetarian Vegan Taste Mood Comfort Food

Cream Of Mushroom Soup

Indulge in this rich and decadent Creamy Vegan Mushroom Soup! Missing creamy soups since going vegan? This recipe delivers an unbelievably delicious, unique flavor profile that will impress even the most discerning palates. Made with cashew cream for a luxuriously smooth texture, it's the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. (Note: This recipe is not low-fat.)

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Small Appliance 3 Steps Or Less Equipment Vegetarian

Alissa Cohen's Broccoli Soup Raw Foods

This vibrant raw broccoli soup recipe, inspired by Alissa Cohen and found on rawfoodtalk.com, is a creamy dream! The secret? A perfect blend of cashews, honey, and a generous pinch of cumin and sea salt to unlock the broccoli's true flavor. So delicious, you'll want seconds (or thirds!). This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy, refreshing meal. Originally using almonds, this cashew adaptation is unbelievably creamy and satisfying.

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Low Cholesterol Preparation Dietary Easy

All Purpose Vegan Cheese Sauce

Craving creamy, cheesy goodness without the dairy? This versatile vegan cheese sauce is your answer! Made with a mild blend of cashews, nutritional yeast (used sparingly for those sensitive to its flavor), and simple spices, this recipe is incredibly easy to customize. Enjoy it as a simple side over steamed veggies or chips, or spice it up with your favorite additions like cumin, chili powder, diced tomatoes, chili, or vegan taco meat. The possibilities are endless! This recipe is a lighter take on our popular #356853, perfect for those new to vegan cooking or who prefer a less intense nutritional yeast flavor.

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Preparation Preparation Occasion Time To Make

Alli's Microwave Cashew Brittle

Forget stovetop hassles! This ridiculously easy microwave cashew brittle recipe delivers a crispy, decadent treat in just 11 minutes. Made with simple ingredients and a powerful 1100-watt microwave (adjust time for lower wattage), it's the perfect quick dessert. Warning: This recipe's success depends on low humidity; those in humid areas might need to try on a drier day. Get ready for cashew bliss!

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Carrots Main Ingredient Poultry Chicken Breasts

Amazing Cashew Chicken

Craving takeout? This incredibly easy Amazing Cashew Chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes! Tender chicken, crisp-tender veggies, and crunchy cashews tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. A weeknight winner that's sure to become a family favorite. #cashewchicken #chinesefood #easyrecipe #weeknightdinner #comfortfood

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Number Of Servings Low Saturated Fat Low In Something Low Protein

Apple Carrot Pineapple Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Apple Carrot Pineapple Salad recipe! This simple 5-minute recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy snack or side dish. Sweet apples, crunchy carrots, and juicy pineapple combine for a delicious tropical twist.

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Picnic To Go Main Ingredient Time To Make

Apple Cinnamon Muffins With Crumble Topping Gluten Free

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of these 5-star Gluten-Free Apple Cinnamon Muffins! Made with a delightful crumble topping and perfectly portioned in muffin cups for a professional bakery-style finish. This recipe is quick, easy, and delivers incredibly moist and flavorful muffins—the perfect breakfast or anytime snack! Prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness!

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Dietary Apples Technique Fruit

Apple Pear Salad With Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

A light and refreshing Apple Pear Salad, perfect as a starter or a light lunch! This recipe, adapted from Southern Living magazine (March 2007), is bursting with fresh flavors and a zesty lemon poppy seed dressing. Easy to make in under 15 minutes, it's the ideal healthy and delicious meal option.

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Beverages Food Processor Blender Easy Vegetarian

Apricot Banana Smoothie

Start your day with a burst of sunshine and nutrients! This creamy, thick Apricot Banana Smoothie is packed with calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and carotenes. Made with plump, juicy dried apricots and nectar, crunchy cashews, and sweet raisins, it's the perfect healthy breakfast or lunch. We’ll show you how to rehydrate dried fruit for optimal flavor and texture. Get ready for a delicious and nutritious treat!

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Main Ingredient Chicken Main Dish Meat

Apricot Chicken With Cashews

Microwave your way to dinner with this unbelievably quick and easy Apricot Chicken with Cashews recipe! Inspired by Taste of Home, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights. Sweet apricots and crunchy cashews complement tender chicken for a flavor explosion that's surprisingly sophisticated. Serve over fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Low Saturated Fat Healthy Healthy 2 Easy

Apricot Citrus Preserves

Delight your taste buds with these vibrant Apricot Citrus Preserves! A unique twist on classic jam, this recipe combines juicy apricots, zesty citrus, and warm spices for a flavor explosion perfect on toast, bagels, muffins, or even yogurt. Developed for rsc #6, this recipe is easy to follow and results in a deliciously homemade treat. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game!

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3 Steps Or Less Time To Make 3 Steps Or Less Easy

Asian Chicken Salad No Noodles

Craving a light and refreshing Asian-inspired salad without the heavy fried noodles? This recipe delivers a vibrant explosion of flavors with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty lime dressing. Ready in just 15 minutes, it's the perfect weeknight meal or healthy lunch! Skip the carbs and enjoy the deliciousness!

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Presentation Low Cholesterol Easy Healthy 2

Asian Cucumber Slaw

This refreshing and light Asian Cucumber Slaw is perfect for a hot day! A vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, carrots, red bell pepper, and onion tossed in a creamy sesame dressing and topped with crunchy cashews. This low-calorie recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Inspired by a Harris Teeter grocery store recipe card.

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Tex Mex Course Main Dish Mexican

Avocado Cashew Enchiladas

Creamy Avocado Cashew Enchiladas from Mollie Katzen's Enchanted Broccoli Forest! These rich and delicious enchiladas are bursting with healthy fats and protein. A vibrant, satisfying vegetarian meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to be amazed!

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Free Of Something Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Banana Tofu Curry

Transform overripe bananas into a surprisingly delicious and easy curry! This unique recipe, inspired by a curry-loving friend, blends the sweetness of bananas with savory spices and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this quick and flavorful curry is ready in under an hour and is guaranteed to impress. Serve with basmati rice and your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying experience.

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Spinach Vegetarian Main Ingredient Asian

Basmati Rice With Cashews Peas And Fresh Coriander

A vibrant and flavorful Basmati rice dish, inspired by international culinary celebrity Kurma Dasa's 'Quick Vegetarian Recipes' card set. This quick and easy recipe features tender basmati rice, crunchy cashews, sweet peas, and fresh coriander, creating a delightful contrast of textures and colors. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe is easily customizable – swap the peas and spinach for your favorite veggies! The key is using tight-fitting lids to ensure perfectly cooked rice.

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Main Ingredient Freezer Time To Make Beef

Beef Kurmah Curried Beef

Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of Beef Kurmah, a delightful Malaysian curry! This incredibly tender, flavorful beef curry is perfect for a cozy night in and is freezer-friendly for future delicious meals. Easy to follow instructions guide you to curry perfection!

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Cuisine Cuisine Occasion Equipment

Sugar And Spice Nuts

These addictive Sugar & Spice Holiday Nuts are a festive favorite! Perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or enjoying as a sweet and crunchy treat. This easy recipe creates a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors that will disappear quickly. Get ready for compliments galore!

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