1. Cashews Aren’t Actually Nuts

Contrary to what their name suggests, cashews aren’t true nuts. They are seeds that grow on the cashew apple, which is the fruit of the cashew tree. This makes them botanically distinct from true nuts like almonds or walnuts.

2. Brazil to the World

Cashews originated in Brazil and were spread across the globe by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century. Today, they are cultivated in various tropical climates, but their journey from South America to becoming a staple in cuisines worldwide is a testament to their universal appeal.

3. The Cashew Apple

Speaking of the cashew apple, it’s a juicy fruit that grows alongside the cashew nut. While the nut gets all the attention, the cashew apple is also edible and is used in various culinary applications, particularly in regions where cashews are grown.

4. Toxic Shell

The shell of the cashew nut contains a toxic resin called urushiol, which is the same substance found in poison ivy.

5. Nutritional Powerhouse

Cashews are packed with nutrients. They’re an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

6. Cashew Oil is Valuable in Industrial and Medical Uses

Beyond its culinary uses, cashew oil, derived from the nut, is used in producing antimicrobial compounds and as a lubricant in machinery, showcasing the versatility and wide-ranging applications of this remarkable nut.