Harvest Enterprises

History

Cashew nuts are the edible seeds of ancacardium occidentale, a tropical and sub-tropical evergreen tree. Their name originates from "acaju", the name given to them by a tribe in Brazil.

These delicious nuts found their way to India in the sixteenth century when the Portuguese traders brought them from their motherland. The traders couldn't do without the delicious nuts that formed part of their daily diet.

The cashew trees flourished in the warm and balmy tropical climate. Cultivation was carried out in an organized manner and soon the delectable cashew nuts made their way in to the hearts of the locals.

Health Benefits

Cashew nuts are rich in proteins and make excellent substitutes for meat and fish. They are extremely healthy and have several beneficial properties.

They are rich in essential amino acids and an excellent source of minerals like iron, sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorous. They are laden with calcium and are extremely nutritious for lactating women, during pregnancy, for growing children and for those who need nourishment after an illness. Their fat content makes them rich in energy.

Cashew nuts are known to have been particularly useful in the treatment of various diseases like scurvy, anemia, nervous weakness etc.

Uses

Considered amongst the world's finest nuts, cashew nuts have a versatile nature. They are characterized by a rich flavor. The nuts are popular all over the world. They are relished by people from all nationalities and used in various cuisines. Roasted and salted or spiced, they are eaten as light snacks. They are often used to garnish and flavor desserts. Almost all South Asian countries use them as an ingredient for their stir fries. They are even used as the main ingredient for several Indian gravy dishes and sweets.

The cashew apple isn't completely edible but is used to make a popular fermented drink called feni by the people of Goa.