CASHEW NUTS: INTERESTING FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Introduction to Cashews

Cashews are the seeds of an edible tree native to northeastern Brazil. Although it is called nuts, cashews are the fruit of that tree with a hard, woody shell called an endocarp. These shells are hard and removed before consuming the nut meat inside.

Cashews have been harvested and eaten since 500 BC, but it was not exported until the 16th century from their native lands to other countries like India, China, and Africa, where they were famous.

Cashew nuts were first cultivated in the 18th century when Portuguese explorers discovered them in Brazil. Over the past 20 years, their popularity has risen dramatically due to their versatility and nutritional benefits.

A one-ounce serving of cashews contains 14 grams of fat, 4 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein. Cashews are a source of magnesium, copper, and phosphorus. Brazil is the largest producer and exporter of cashews.

Alcoeats offers a wide variety of cashews. We have three different types of sweet cashews - Chocolate Espresso Cashews, White Chocolate Cashews, and Cinnamon Sugar Cashews, and eight different types of savory cashews- Peri Peri Cashews, Mexican taco Cashews, Black Pepper Cashews, Simply Salted Cashews, Sour Cream & Onion Cashews, Cajun Kick Cashews, Jalapeno & Cheddar Cashews, and Cheddar Cheese Cashews. 

Types of Cashews

The cashew nut is the edible seed of a tree. There are two types of cashews, raw and roasted. Raw cashews are whole cashews that have not been roasted or processed. During the roasting, salt or sugar is mixed with roasted cashews.

There are different types of cashews based on size, color, and taste. There are six different cashew varieties out there.

Cashew Kernels- White Wholes

180 White Whole Cashews are used in cooking because they provide increased energy and a flavorful and enjoyable taste. They share many of the same beneficial properties and other characteristics of the white kernel. The most popular grade is the W-450 type because it has the smallest and cheapest white whole kernels. A kind of cashew nut is scorched whole cashews roasted for periods and turns a light brown color instead.

Cashew Kernels- Scorched Wholes 

One of the varieties of cashews is scorched whole nuts, which have a light brownish tone due to longer roasting. The white ones share the same nutritious benefits and all other characteristics. Split-up pieces or butts are perfect for cooking sweet goods or making a few savory snacks.

Cashew Kernels- Dessert Wholes

A cashew nut classified as DW grade (also known as Dessert Wholes Cashew) may be slightly immature and have brown spots or other surface imperfections. As long as there are no more than 60% of the kernels impacted, it is okay.

Cashew Kernels- White Pieces

Bits and pieces are interchangeable terms for various types of cashews, which usually serve as an edible topping or ingredient in baked goods or trail mix. Though these would cost you less money than buying whole cashews, they also can't be called cashew.

Cashew Kernels- Scorched Pieces

Cashews are also known as burnt cashews due to the light brown hue that they take when cooked for too long. White cashew will turn blacker than dark-brown cashews if left in the oven for even a few minutes more, but both varieties can be bought whole or sliced up according to what you need.

Cashew Kernels- Dessert Pieces

In this type of cashew nut, the kernels might be heavily burnt, dark brown, blue-speckled; or even tainted with black spots. Kernels are broken but need to meet requirements - for example, 4.75mm width and 16 SWG thickness. Scorched Wholes Seconds and Dessert Wholes DW make up these cashew nuts.

Health Benefits of Cashew Nuts

DISCLAIMER - This blog does not provide you with any medical advice. It is strictly meant to be an informational and recipe blog only. Please consult your physician or medical expert for what works best for you.

Cashews are nutrient-dense and rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. They can be a great addition to your diet when consumed in moderation.

• Cashew Good for Heart-Health - Cashew nuts may lower LDL levels and increase HDL levels, which may reduce inflammation in the body. Cashews are for those who want to reduce their chance of developing heart disease because they are so healthy.
• May Lowers Blood Pressure - Cashews are rich in healthy polyunsaturated fats and many different nutrients like Magnesium, Potassium, and L-Arginine. All help may reduce your blood pressure by opening up your arteries.
• May Control and Prevent Diabetes - For people with Type 2 Diabetes, including cashews in their diet may regulate blood glucose levels effectively. Cashews are a good source of fiber which may prevent increases in blood glucose. However, because they are high in calories, it is advised to have them in moderation.
• May Help Boost Immunity - Cashew nuts contain high levels of zinc and vitamins to ensure your body stays healthy. Zinc is an immune-boosting mineral that may help with basic cell processes. Consuming zinc may provide you with what your body needs to remain vital - including enough vitamins and minerals for optimal health.
• May Strengthen Bones - For strong and healthy bones, one needs minerals - and cashew nuts are full of them. These nuts contain a lot of copper and calcium that may strengthen our bone structure. Copper may also aid in joint flexibility by synthesizing collagen.

To Sum Up on Cashews

Cashew nuts are a highly nutrient-dense food that provides excellent health benefits. These kidney-shaped nuts might take care of various ailments from your heart to your stomach. Moreover, cashews could provide the necessary nutrients for those who eat them regularly. If stored properly in an air-tight container, they can last all year long - so there is no need to worry about when or where you will get another fix of this tasty treat.