Raw or Roasted? How Cashew Nuts are Best Traded

Cashew nuts are seeds attached to the bottom of the large, juicy cashew apple. These apples hang from branches on the cashew tree, and they undergo a very thorough process of harvesting before they are fit for packaging and distribution.

Unsurprisingly they are one of the most consumed nuts globally, and they are a good source of zinc, magnesium, potassium, iron, and a host of other micronutrients. Cashew nuts have a host of health benefits, and when consumed regularly, they generally help reduce cholesterol, enhance cardiovascular health, and increase blood vessels' function. 

Cashews are sold both raw or roasted and salted or unsalted. Interestingly, what we know as raw cashews are not raw! They have already been roasted to remove their unsafe shells as truly raw cashews contain a toxic compound on their shells. The toxins are very harmful and are similar to the toxins found in poison ivy and anacardic acid, which on consumption lead to itchy skin and severe skin rashes. The cashews which we know as roasted have been roasted twice, once after being removed from their shell, and another time after that.

RAW AND ROASTED CASHEW NUTS

According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, heating the cashew does not affect the fat composition or nutritional value. Both raw and roasted cashew nuts are good for you and present many great health benefits. Both varieties have similar amounts of calories, carbs, proteins, and fibre.

The number of nutrients and calories will only be altered if roasted cashews are seasoned with ingredients such as salt or honey. Some nutritionists argue that raw cashews are slightly better because they are unmodified and retain all their initial minerals and nutrients. However, regardless of their state both still trade very well. Read why you should be bulk buying cashew nuts.

One major difference between raw and roasted cashews would be their flavour profile. Raw cashews have a mild, buttery flavour that can be enhanced when roasted. Additionally, raw cashews can be incorporated into several recipes without worrying that the additional flavours might impact the flavour of the food. Chefs use roasted cashews when they do not want the cashew flavour to be overpowered by the other ingredients in the meal. Raw cashews are less likely to turn rancid as quickly as roasted cashews because of the oil typically used to roast the nut. 

HOW TO ROAST CASHEWS

As stated earlier, cashews can be roasted to make their flavour more pronounced. Roasting cashews can be easily done at home. Here’s a quick guide:

• Preheat your oven to about 350 degrees.
• Place a single layer of cashews on a baking sheet.
• Roast for 10-15 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent burning.
• Remove cashews from the oven, allow to cool, and store in an airtight container.

KODGAV’s RAW & ROASTED CASHEWS

Cashews, raw or roasted, can be eaten as a snack, pureed as an alternative to peanut butter, or even blended to make cashew milk or cashew chicken. They can also be added to stir-fried rice, vegetables, or salad. At KODGAV, we produce and sell both raw and roasted cashews in our online store. Both types of cashews are natural, organic, and GMO-free, allowing our customers to enjoy the best organic, vegan-guaranteed products without guilt. 

We work to provide direct market access to value processed agro-food products straight from the source, and we’re experts at international sales and supply agreements. For customers seeking roasted or raw cashews, we offer great options. Our orders usually arrive at the port within 15 days of a confirmed export order, so no matter which option you choose, you can be confident of a quality trade. Read 4 ways KODGAV is supplying cashew nuts sustainable to the UK.