Cashew

Cashew

Cashew is a unique, dual-part fruit harvested from the Anacardium occidentale tree, a hardy botanical that thrives in the sandy, coastal soils of Guyana and the West Indies. It consists of a vibrant, fleshy "apple" and an exterior nut encased in a hard gray shell. These fruits are chosen for their exceptionally high Vitamin C content and their historical reputation as a potent, natural "blood builder" and invigorating restorative.

Flavor Profile

The flavor is intensely aromatic, tropical, and astringent, characterized by a sweet-tart tang and a distinctive "zesty" edge. Because it is a highly succulent fruit, it has a soft, fibrous, and incredibly juicy body that releases a flood of liquid upon the first bite. It leaves a sharp, slightly puckering (tannic) sensation on the palate that is immediately followed by a refreshing, honeyed sweetness.

Typical Use

It is most frequently used as a base for cooling drinks or as a fresh, hand-held snack. In Caribbean households, the bright red or yellow apples are often squeezed by hand to extract a cloudy, potent juice, while the nuts are carefully roasted over an open fire to remove their caustic shells. Because of its intense aroma, the fruit is also a favorite for "setting" in water or wine to create a fragrant, fermented beverage.

Cultural Use & Recipes

• Vitality Restorative: Culturally, the cashew apple is used as a natural tonic to boost energy and provide a quick "lift" to the immune system. It is a staple in "Bush Medicine" traditions for those looking to refresh the body and clear the throat.
• The "Fresh Pressed" Juice: To prepare traditionally, wash several ripe cashew apples and remove the nuts. Grate or blend the fruit and squeeze through a clean cloth to extract the juice. Mix with cold water, a splash of lime, and a hint of ginger. Sweeten with cane sugar and serve over ice to cut the fruit's natural astringency.
• Stewed Cashew Apple: For a sweet preparation, slice the apples into rounds and simmer them in a pot with brown sugar, a stick of cinnamon, and a few whole cloves. Cook until the fruit is tender and the syrup has thickened into a rich, aromatic glaze. This is typically served as a dessert or a sweet topping for local porridges.

Sold by weight. Select your preferred pound option.

Fresh cashew sold by weight.

Available weight options:
• 1 lb
• 3 lb
• 5 lb

Piece size varies naturally. Final weight based on total product weight.