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

Inexpensive Inexpensive Preparation Main Ingredient

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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Preparation Stove Top Chicken Breasts Asian

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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Easy Low Protein Healthy Main Ingredient

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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Pies And Tarts Holiday Event Brunch Desserts

Apricot Baklava

Indulge in this exquisite Apricot Baklava, a delightful twist on a classic dessert! Layers of crisp filo pastry envelop a luscious filling of tender apricots, spiced with cinnamon and enhanced by the subtle sweetness of brown sugar and the aromatic touch of Fetzer's Gewürztraminer. This recipe, perfected after a few playful kitchen mishaps, is guaranteed to impress. The secret? A fragrant honey-infused syrup that takes this baklava to the next level. Get ready to savor every bite!

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Condiments Etc Low Saturated Fat Main Ingredient 3 Steps Or Less

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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Broccoli Brunch Salads Asian

Asian Chicken Broccoli Slaw

Craving vibrant, healthy takeout? This Asian Chicken Broccoli Slaw is a crowd-pleasing recipe that's ready in under 30 minutes! Inspired by a Family Fun magazine potluck recipe, this vibrant slaw boasts a medley of crunchy broccoli slaw, tender chicken, and colorful veggies tossed in a tangy peanut dressing. Perfect for satisfying your Asian food cravings and impressing even the pickiest eaters! The beautiful colors resemble a Mardi Gras parade – a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!

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Main Ingredient 3 Steps Or Less Asian Inexpensive

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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Occasion Occasion Main Ingredient Main Dish

Asian Summer Pasta Salad

Escape the heat with this vibrant and refreshing Asian Summer Pasta Salad! This easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or supper, ready in under 30 minutes. Customize it with grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or succulent shrimp for a heartier meal. The perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors will leave you wanting more! #asiansalad #pastasalad #summersalad #easyrecipe #quickrecipe #lunchideas #dinnerideas

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Main Ingredient Poultry 15 Minutes Or Less Dietary

Asian Twist Chicken Salad

Experience a flavor explosion with this Asian-inspired chicken salad! Sweet, spicy, and savory notes combine in a quick and easy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or a vibrant lunch. Customize the heat with a minced jalapeño – if you dare! This recipe features tender chicken tossed in a zesty peanut sauce with crunchy cashews and fresh cilantro. Get ready for a delicious twist on a classic!

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15 Minutes Or Less Stir Fry Asparagus Healthy 2

Asparagus Cashew Stir Fry

This vibrant Asparagus Cashew Stir-Fry is a delicious and healthy weeknight meal ready in under 15 minutes! Tender asparagus spears meet crunchy cashews in a savory sauce, all served over fluffy rice. A perfect blend of textures and flavors that will quickly become a family favorite. #asparagus #cashew #stirfry #weeknightdinner #easyrecipe #healthyrecipe #asianinspired

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Cuisine Dietary Time To Make Stove Top

Asparagus With Cashews

This vibrant recipe delivers a quick and easy weeknight meal! Crisp-tender asparagus spears are tossed with savory cashews, fragrant ginger, and earthy mushrooms in a flavorful soy sauce. Best prepared in a wok for maximum flavor, but easily adaptable to a high-sided skillet. This delicious side dish complements any protein, from chicken and fish to tofu and steak. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 20 minutes!

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Southwestern United States One Dish Meal Main Dish Southwestern United States

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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Apples Desserts Low In Something Low Cholesterol

Baked Apples With Apricots And Cashews

A delightful autumn recipe! These baked apples are filled with a warm and comforting mixture of sweet apricots, crunchy cashews, and aromatic cinnamon. Perfectly spiced and tender, they're a delicious dessert or healthy snack. A family favorite, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

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Cuisine Course Breads Chocolate

Banana Bread Mans Banana Bread

A Key West legend comes to your kitchen! This recipe, inspired by the infamous Banana Man himself, delivers the most decadent, moist, and flavorful banana bread you'll ever taste. Made with real butter, ripe bananas, and a hint of rum, this special treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Get ready to experience banana bread bliss!

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Bananas Number Of Servings Tropical Fruit Taste Mood

Banana Cashew Melt

Indulge in this ridiculously easy and delicious Banana Cashew Melt! Ready in 5 minutes, this simple treat is perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or dessert. Sweet bananas and creamy cashews combine for a naturally sweet and satisfying experience.

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Occasion Easy Cheese Kid Friendly

Basil Cashew Chicken Salad

A vibrant and flavorful chicken salad with a surprising twist! This recipe combines the deliciousness of basil and chicken, along with crunchy cashews, creating a creamy and satisfying sandwich filling ready in just 5 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!

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30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Cuisine Vegetarian

Beans Black Eyed Peas And Cashew Salad

This vibrant and flavorful salad is packed with protein and healthy fats! A perfect side dish or satisfying vegetarian entree, this recipe combines tender beans, black-eyed peas, crunchy cashews, and a zesty vinaigrette for a taste sensation. Easy to make and even better the next day!

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Time To Make Equipment Main Dish Meat

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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