The Cashew Connoisseur: Tips and Tricks for Cooking with Cashews

• February 03 2023
• 5 min reading time

Cashews are a versatile and delicious nut that are loved by people all over the world. Whether you're snacking on them straight from the bag, using them in a recipe, or topping off a salad, cashews bring a touch of nutty flavour and crunch to any dish. But did you know that these nuts are also incredibly versatile in the kitchen? From making dairy-free milk and cream to being used as a base for sauces, cashews can be transformed into a variety of different ingredients, making them a staple in any kitchen. In this article, we'll be exploring the many ways that cashews can be used in cooking and sharing some tips and tricks for making the most out of this nut. So, whether you're a seasoned cashew connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of cooking with cashews, keep reading to learn more!

The Art of Roasting: How to Perfectly Toast Cashews

Roasting cashews brings out their natural nutty flavour and creates a crunchy texture that is perfect for snacking or adding to recipes. Here's how to roast cashews to perfection:

• Preheat your oven to 175°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Spread the raw cashews in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cashews are golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and let cool completely before using or storing.

It's important to keep a close eye on the cashews as they roast, as they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a matter of minutes. If you're looking to add extra flavour to your roasted cashews, try tossing them with a bit of oil and your favourite spices before roasting. Some great options include garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of brown sugar. With these tips and tricks, you'll be roasting cashews like a pro in no time!

Creamy Cashews: How to Make Your Own Nut Milk and Cream

Making nut milk and cream from cashews is easier than you might think, and it's a great way to add a rich, creamy texture to your cooking and baking. Here's how to make cashew milk and cream:

For Cashew Milk:

• Soak 1 cup of raw cashews in water overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
• Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a blender with 4 cups of water.
• Blend on high for 2-3 minutes, or until smooth and creamy.
• Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any remaining chunks.
• Sweeten to taste, if desired, with a sweetener such as maple syrup or honey.

For Cashew Cream:

• Soak 1 cup of raw cashews in water overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
• Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a blender with 1/4 cup of water.
• Blend on high for 2-3 minutes, or until smooth and creamy.
• Use as you would regular cream, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Making your own cashew milk and cream is a great way to save money and avoid any added preservatives or artificial ingredients that you might find in store-bought options. Plus, you can customise the flavour and consistency to your liking. Give it a try and discover the creamy goodness of homemade cashew milk and cream!

From Side Dish to Main Course: Using Cashews in Recipes

Cashews can be used in a wide range of recipes, from sweet to savoury, making them a versatile and delicious ingredient to keep on hand in your kitchen. Here are a few ways to incorporate cashews into your cooking:

• As a coating: Crush roasted cashews and use them to coat chicken or fish for a crunchy exterior.
• In sauces: Blend soaked cashews with herbs, spices, and liquids to create a creamy and flavourful sauce to drizzle over pasta, vegetables, or proteins.
• In stir-fries: Add chopped cashews to your favourite stir-fry dishes for a crunchy texture and nutty flavour.
• In salads: Top off your favourite salad with a handful of roasted cashews for a crunchy addition of flavour and texture.
• In baked goods: Use cashew flour or finely ground cashews as a substitute for traditional flour in baked goods such as cakes, cookies, or bread.
• In desserts: Use cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative to whipped cream or add chopped cashews to ice creams or puddings for added crunch.

These are just a few ways that cashews can be used in cooking. Experiment with incorporating them into your favourite recipes and discover the delicious possibilities of cooking with cashews.

The Sweet Side of Cashews: Desserts and Treats Featuring this Nut

Cashews are not just for savoury dishes, they also make a delicious addition to sweet treats and desserts. From cashew-based desserts to baked goods that incorporate cashews, here are a few ideas to try:

• Cashew Butter: Make your own cashew butter by blending roasted cashews in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Use as a spread or in baking.
• Cashew Milk Ice Cream: Blend soaked cashews with coconut milk and sweetener to create a creamy and delicious dairy-free ice cream.
• Cashew Cheesecake: Use cashew cream as the base for a creamy, dairy-free cheesecake.
• Cashew Brittle: Make your own cashew brittle by heating cashews, sugar, and butter together until the mixture caramelises. Pour onto a lined baking sheet and let cool.
• Cashew-Studded Cookies: Fold chopped cashews into your favourite cookie dough for an added crunch and nutty flavour.
• Cashew Cream Tart: Use cashew cream to create a delicious and dairy-free tart filling.

There's no limit to the sweet possibilities when it comes to cooking with cashews. Get creative and experiment with incorporating them into your favourite recipes for a delicious and nutty twist.

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