Cashews
Rich protein and healthy fats for snacking, baking, and creamy sauces - your kitchen essential.
What it is
Cashews are kidney-shaped nuts that grow on cashew trees, native to Brazil but now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide. They're technically seeds that hang beneath the cashew fruit.
Flavor and texture
Mild, sweet, and buttery with a smooth, creamy texture that's less crunchy than most nuts. They have a rich, almost dairy-like quality.
Best uses
Perfect for snacking, adding to stir-fries, making cashew cream or cheese alternatives, blending into smoothies, or using in both sweet and savory baked goods.
Storage & freshness
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry pantry away from heat sources.
| As purchased | 3-6 monthsdepending on bin turnover and storage conditions |
| Sealed (pantry) | 6-12 monthsif kept airtight in cool conditions |
| Refrigerated | 1-2 yearsin airtight container |
| Frozen | 2-3 yearstexture may become slightly softer after thawing |
Durations are for best quality. Safe to consume longer if no spoilage signs present.
Raw cashews are more perishable than roasted due to higher moisture content and lack of heat treatment.
Cooking tip
Soak raw cashews in warm water for 15-30 minutes before blending to create the smoothest, creamiest cashew-based sauces and dips.
Interesting note
Cashews are never sold in their shells because the shell contains a toxic oil related to poison ivy that must be carefully removed during processing.
Contains allergens
Quick facts
Pairs well with
Nutrition snapshot
Basis: per 100 g · USDA FoodData Central · Match confidence: High