After the discovery of the New World, the Spaniards and the Portuguese became acquainted with a number of unknown edible plants that have enriched European cuisine. It is now difficult to imagine our life without many of them. Among these previously unknown novelties was the gourmet cashew nut, which has an exceptionally high taste.
Cashew tree: a wonderful plant
Long before the arrival of European conquistadors and explorers, cashews were familiar to the Chikuna Indians who lived in what is now Brazil. They fully appreciated the wonderful properties of the cashew fruit tree. The fact is that this is one of the very few plants, all parts of which can find useful use.
Cashew fruits, consisting of both a core-nut and a delicious juicy shell ("cashew apple") were eaten, medicines were prepared from the bark and leaves, the wood was used to make boats and household items.
The cashew tree is evergreen, spreading, reaching a height of 15 meters. It grows not only in Brazil, but also in some other countries, such as India.
The Chikuna Indians called this tree acaju, which in translation sounds like "yellow fruit". The Portuguese conquerors, who also fully appreciated the advantages of the plant, changed its name to the caju, which is more familiar to their ears. Subsequently, the British also changed the name into cashew - "cashew". This is how it stuck, becoming the most common.
In addition to culinary purposes, nuts are also used in medicine. They have tonic, antibacterial and antiseptic properties.
How cashew nuts are processed and used
The cashew fruit consists of two parts - a nutty core and a juicy shell, which is called a "cashew apple", although it looks more like a pear. The shell of the fruit is very tasty. It also makes a very good, refreshing sweet and sour juice. Unfortunately, the "cashew apple" does not tolerate transportation at all. Therefore, those Russians who want to buy and taste this overseas delicacy should go to Brazil or India.
Tourists vacationing on the coast of the Indian state of Goa can taste a strong alcoholic drink made from fermented cashew fruit juice.
In cashew nuts, there is a very caustic oily substance between the shell and the inner shell. When falling on the skin or mucous membranes, it causes severe burns. Tourists should never buy unpeeled nuts or try to peel them on their own! Purchase only peeled cashews by weight that have been heat treated to remove harsh oil.
Shelled and processed cashews are great food. They are often used in cooking. They are good both by themselves and as components of salads, main courses, baked goods.
