17/12/2021
The Cashew Fruits are the apples of the cashew tree to which the cashew nut is attached.
Although technically a seed, cashew nuts are the most popular part of the tree—beloved for their creamy texture, high-fat content, and nutrient-rich profile.
Despite the nuts' dietary praise, their apples (or pseudo fruits) remain mostly out of the spotlight. The cashew apple—or the plump part of the cashew fruit, connected to the cashew nut—looks like a mini, oval-shaped boxing glove. Botanically speaking, cashew apples are so-called accessory fruits because they grow after cashew seeds have fully developed. Thus, the actual drupe or peduncle is the kidney-shaped shell enclosing the edible cashew nut, which you'll find at the end of the apple.
The very thin skin is covered in a waxy, smooth coating, and as the fruit matures, it ripens to golden-yellow or red, sometimes variegated with a blend of both hues.
Cashew fruit is highly aromatic with sweet, tropical flavors mixed with an astringent taste. Many liken the flavor of the fruit to be a blend of cucumbers, strawberries, mangos, and bell pepper.
It is available year-round in tropical climates.
Cashew fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C, magnesium, and contains copper, potassium, and iron.
They are usually made into juice, wine, jams, salads, and other tasty treats. In Asia, apple-inspired curry dishes, veggie stir-fries, desserts, vinegar, and chutneys are among some of these fruits' delectable culinary creations.
