Anacardium occidentale – Cashew Tree, Cashew Nuts

Description

The cashew nut, botanically the seed of the Anacardium occidentale tree, is a drupe that grows uniquely outside of the fruit. The “cashew nut” hangs from the bottom of the fleshy, colorful cashew apple, which is actually a swollen stem. The seed is encased in a thick, double-walled shell. This shell contains a highly caustic and toxic resin, anacardic acid, which is similar to the substance found in poison ivy and can cause severe skin irritation. Therefore, the seeds are never sold in their raw form with the shell on.

Before the edible kernel can be safely consumed, the entire nut must undergo a careful processing method, typically involving roasting or steaming. This process neutralizes the harmful resin, allowing the shell to be cracked open to reveal the crescent-shaped cashew kernel that we know as a popular food product. Cashews are a rich source of protein and healthy fats, and are used widely in cuisines around the world.