Cashew Nuts

The cashew is a small kidney shaped nut harvested from a tropical tree (Anacardium occidentale) that originated in Brazil, but is now grown in many other warm and humid countries, such as Vietnam and India. The nuts have a rich, buttery taste, and are often roasted in salt to bring out the flavour. Roasted and salted cashews are best used for snacking, whereas plain nuts are ideal for using in savoury Chinese and Indian dishes, especially in chicken recipes. When using in cooking, fry the nuts in oil until they turn golden brown and then add them to the dish at the last moment.