Cashew

Anacardium occidentale Nut

Cashew Nut

At a Glance

  • Category Nut

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A kidney-shaped edible seed from the cashew tree, known for its buttery flavor and creamy texture, often eaten roasted or used in cooking.

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)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cashew are:

Buttery Creamy Mild Slightly Sweet

Chef’s Secret

Soak raw cashews in hot water for 30 minutes before blending to achieve an incredibly smooth, dairy-free cream for sauces or desserts.

Best Substitutes

Almonds

Ratio 1:1

Macadamia Nuts

Ratio 1:1

Pine Nuts

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Buy raw, unsalted for versatility; check for whole pieces rather than broken.

Recipes Using Cashew

Soups Stews Occasion Bisques Cream Soups Vegetables

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.)

See Complete Recipe
Grains 4 Hours Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains Course

Cashew Almond Coconut Granola

Craveable homemade granola? This Cashew Almond Coconut Granola recipe delivers! Easy to make with simple ingredients, this crunchy and delicious granola is perfect for breakfast, yogurt toppings, or a healthy snack. Customize it with your favorite dried fruit – we love chopped dates, but raisins or cranberries are also fantastic!

See Complete Recipe
Main Ingredient For 1 Or 2 Number Of Servings Low Fat

Aarsi's Ultimate Pea Pulao

Experience the vibrant flavors of India with this incredible Pea Pulao, inspired by the classic Spanish Paella! A comforting and aromatic rice dish bursting with peas, warming spices, and crunchy nuts. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This recipe offers a delicious twist on a beloved classic!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Candy Preparation Gifts

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!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Low In Something Low Carb 30 Minutes Or Less

Asparagus And Cashews

A family favorite passed down through generations! This quick and easy recipe transforms tender asparagus into a vibrant dish with a creamy cashew sauce. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the delightful combination of fresh asparagus, crunchy cashews, and zesty lemon.

See Complete Recipe
15 Minutes Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation

Beetroot Parmesan And Cashew Dip

This vibrant Beetroot Parmesan & Cashew Dip is the perfect summer appetizer! Quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavor, it's ready in minutes. Serve with water crackers, pita bread, or lavash for a crowd-pleasing snack or party dip.

See Complete Recipe
Beef Steaks Easy Meat

Asian Beef Salad

This vibrant and healthy Asian Beef Salad is a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Inspired by a SlimFast recipe, this flavorful salad features thinly sliced flank steak, crisp vegetables, and a delightful Asian-inspired dressing. Grill or broil the steak for a smoky char, or pan-sear for ultimate convenience! Low-calorie and packed with protein, it's a delicious and guilt-free way to enjoy a taste of Asia.

See Complete Recipe
Occasion Free Of Something Vegetarian Food Processor Blender

Basic White Cake Vegan

Create a wonderfully moist and adaptable vegan white cake with this easy recipe! Free of dairy and eggs, and naturally lower in sugar, it's the perfect guilt-free base for countless delicious desserts. Transform it into a delightful apple cake (instructions included!), or unleash your creativity and invent your own unique variations. Adapted from "The Best of Silver Hills" cookbook. Get baking!

See Complete Recipe
Dietary 4 Hours Or Less Cuisine Preparation

Nutty Chicken Spanakopita

A delicious twist on a classic! This Nutty Chicken Spanakopita recipe combines savory ground chicken, spinach, and crunchy cashews in a flaky phyllo dough crust. Perfect as a satisfying appetizer or a light main course, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible flavor in just 80 minutes. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this elevated take on a Greek favorite!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Healthy 2 Low Carb Dietary

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.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Time To Make Main Dish Occasion

Anita's Rice Hot Dish

A comforting family classic, this Rice Hot Dish was a guaranteed crowd-pleaser in our house! Five kids, zero complaints – that's a recipe for success. This savory casserole is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck. The tender rice, flavorful ground beef, and optional crunchy cashew topping will have everyone asking for seconds!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Low Cholesterol Salads Meat

A Bit Of Everything Chicken Salad

This vibrant and flavorful chicken salad is a delicious and easy weeknight supper! Packed with wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks who crave a satisfying and exciting meal. Get ready to enjoy a delightful mix of textures and tastes in every bite!

See Complete Recipe
Easy Dietary 30 Minutes Or Less Easy

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!

See Complete Recipe
Course Course Salads Time To Make

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!

See Complete Recipe
Gluten Free Free Of Something Beginner Cook 15 Minutes Or Less

Basil Parmesan And Cashew Dip

Get ready to be obsessed! This creamy, decadent Basil Parmesan & Cashew Dip is a restaurant-quality copycat recipe that's surprisingly easy and affordable to make at home. Say goodbye to overpriced deli dips! This versatile sauce is incredible served with rice crackers, as a vibrant pesto for pasta, chicken, or fish, or even as a unique topping for your favorite dishes. The vibrant basil, nutty cashews, and sharp parmesan create an unforgettable flavor combination.

See Complete Recipe
To Go Low In Something Seafood To Go

Barbecued Pesto Fish

Escape to the Mediterranean with this vibrant Barbecued Pesto Fish recipe! Simple, easy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering. Succulent fish fillets are slathered in a homemade pesto and grilled to perfection. Cooking time adjusts to your fish thickness, ensuring flaky, delicious results every time.

See Complete Recipe
Main Dish Stove Top Taste Mood Main Ingredient

Asian Twist Chicken Salad Low Carb

Craving a quick, low-carb lunch or dinner that's bursting with flavor? This Asian Twist Chicken Salad is your answer! Tender chicken tossed in a zesty teriyaki-lemon dressing, crunchy nuts, and crisp veggies, all perfectly rolled up in romaine lettuce cups for a satisfying and healthy meal. Get ready for a taste explosion in just 20 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Dietary Low Calorie Vegetarian Low Saturated Fat

Asparagus Tofu Noodle Stir Fry

This vibrant and healthy vegetarian stir-fry, inspired by Mollie Katzen's "Still Life with Menu," is packed with flavor and ready in under an hour! Marinate succulent tofu in a zesty ginger-soy sauce, then toss with crisp asparagus, tender noodles, and a touch of sesame. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful weekend lunch. Make-ahead steps save you time!

See Complete Recipe