Cashews are commonly referred to as nuts, but they are actually seeds that come from the cashew apple pseudo fruit of the cashew tree. It is a tropical evergreen tree that produces the kidney-shaped seed (cashew) when it bears its fruit. The scientific name for this popular fruit is Anacardium Occidentale. Cashews have a rich nutty flavour and a similar taste to almonds. They are known to have nutritional benefits too; however, you must take extra precautions whenever you eat cashew seeds. It is also important to roast the cashews before consumption, as eating them raw in large quantities may cause health risks. Nutritional Facts An ounce serving of about 28 grams of raw and unsalted cashew seeds contain: Calories: 157 Protein: 5 grams Fat: 12 grams Carbs: 9 grams Fiber: 1 gram Copper: 67% of the Daily Value (DV) Magnesium: 20% of the DV Manganese: 20% of the DV Zinc: 15% of the DV Phosphorus: 13% of the DV Iron: 11% of the DV Selenium: 10% of the DV Thiamine: 10% of the DV Vitamin K: 8% of the DV Vitamin B6: 7% of the DV Overall, cashew seeds contain the nutrients that you need to supply for energy consumption, improving brain health, boosting your immunity, and strengthening your bones. They are low in sugar content, but rich in fibre – which makes it good for someone with diabetes, or for some who are on a vegetarian diet. Cashews have a mid-range shelf life, as long as you store it properly, you will be able to preserve their flavours and quality. Its shelf life can last to an average of six (6) months if you store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The texture of cashews may be affected if you keep them at room temperature. It is better to store them in the refrigerator so they can last longer. Health Benefits of Cashew Nuts (Cashew Seeds) Eating cashew nuts have benefits for your overall health. Some of them include: A powerhouse of antioxidants like polyphenols and carotenoids – these compounds have anti-inflammatory properties and act as an agent in preventing diseases. A great ingredient to help you achieve your weight-loss goals – since they are rich in fibre, they increase your feeling of being full preventing you to randomly crave for food. An approved health claim for food labels from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stated that “eating 1.5 oz. per day of most nuts as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.” Cooking with TRS Broken Cashew Nuts are commonly used in making gravies, and creams for vegan salads, nut butter, and the like. They are also widely used in baking all around the world. For Indian cuisine, cashew nuts are considered to be essential too. Here are some Indian cashew nut recipes that you can try at home. Creamy Cashew Indian Chicken Curry Hyderabadi Chicken Korma Vegan Kaju Matar Masala Indian Egg Curry in Cashew Gravy Karwar Style Bibya Usal Recipe (Spiced Cashew Nut Sabzi)