Cashew Apple
Anacardium occidentale
Description
Tropical fruit with thin skin and juicy pulp, widely used in juices, sweets, and savory dishes. Known for its sweet and slightly acidic flavor.
Benefits
Source of Vitamin C (219 mg/100g) and magnesium. Strengthens the immune system and aids in bone health.
History and Origins
The Cashew is native to Brazil and was consumed by indigenous peoples long before the Portuguese arrived. The "fruit" we eat (the apple) is actually the swollen stalk, while the nut is the true fruit! In the 17th century, it was taken to Africa and Asia, where it adapted well.
Fun Facts
The Cashew is one of the only fruits where the seed grows "outside" the fruit body. Warning: the raw cashew nut shell contains toxins and must be roasted! In Brazil, there is even a Cashew liquor.
What are the varieties of Cashew Apple?
Common varieties: Early Dwarf (short tree, easy harvest), Common Cashew (larger, juicier), Purple Cashew (reddish skin), and Cerrado Cashew (small and aromatic).
Nutritional Values per 100g of Cashew Apple
| Calories | 43 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 10.3 g |
| Protein | 0.9 g |
| Fat | 0.3 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Vitamin C | 219 mg |
Harvest Months
Harvest months listed here correspond to the Southern Hemisphere.
