The spelling of "cashew nut" is interesting as its pronunciation differs from its spelling. The IPA phonetic transcription for cashew nut is /ˈkæʃuː nʌt/. The first two letters "ca" denote the "k" and "æ" sounds respectively. However, the "she" in "cashew" is pronounced as "shu" while "nut" is pronounced as "nʌt". The word originated from the Portuguese "caju" and it is believed that the spelling may have been simplified for easier pronunciation in English.
The term "cashew nut" refers to the edible seed or kernel of the cashew tree, scientifically known as Anacardium occidentale. This tropical tree is native to Northeastern Brazil, but it is widely cultivated in various parts of the world due to the popularity and commercial value of its nuts. The cashew nut is enclosed within a kidney-shaped shell, which is lined with a toxic resin known as cashew balm or cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL). In botanical terms, the cashew nut is classified as a nut, although it is technically a seed.
Cashew nuts are highly sought after for their rich, creamy taste and crunchy texture. They are often consumed as a snack or included in various culinary dishes, providing both nutritional value and flavor enhancement. These nuts are a source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They are also a good source of minerals such as magnesium, manganese, copper, and phosphorus, as well as vitamins like vitamin K, vitamin E, and B-complex vitamins.
Due to their versatility, cashew nuts are used in a wide array of cuisines and food preparations. They can be enjoyed roasted, salted, or flavored, used as ingredients in salads, stir-fries, curries, or vegan cheese alternatives, and ground into a paste to make sauces or desserts, such as cashew butter or cashew-based ice creams. The popularity of cashew nuts stems from their delicious taste, versatility in cooking, and their nutritional profile, making them a valued ingredient and a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide.
The nut of Anacardium occidentale.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "cashew" comes from the Portuguese word "cajú", which is derived from the Tupi indigenous language of Brazil, where the cashew tree is native. The word "nut" refers to the edible seed or fruit of the cashew tree. So, the term "cashew nut" combines the Portuguese and indigenous Brazilian roots to describe the seed of the cashew tree.