Cashews aren’t just a tasty nut—they’re perfect for both sweet and savory dishes. They add creaminess, flavor, and a nice crunch, making them a favorite in Indian kitchens. Cashews bring together a mix of nutrition and richness, fitting perfectly into all kinds of meals, from a festive feast to a simple weeknight dinner. With cashews, even the simplest dish can feel special.

1. A Must in Indian Dishes

Gravies and Curries: Cashews are frequently ground into a paste that gives gravies a silky, creamy texture. Some popular dishes include Paneer Butter Masala, Chicken Butter Masala, and Shahi Makhani Paneer. A smooth paste made from soaked cashews is often mixed into the base of these curries, adding a mild creaminess that balances the spices. Cashews are also key in dishes like Korma, where their nutty taste thickens and adds depth to the sauces.

Desserts: Indian desserts are loved for their rich, sweet flavors, and cashews are a key ingredient in many of them. Kaju Katli (a smooth cashew fudge) is a classic treat that showcases the natural sweetness of cashews. Cashews are also used in Payasam (a creamy milk dessert), Halwa, and Laddus. In these sweets, cashews provide a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom and saffron. Other popular desserts include Kaju Mysore Pak, Cashew Cookies, Salted Cashew & Caramel Chews, and Dry Fruit Chikki. These desserts are often made for special occasions, making cashews a favorite choice for festive treats.

Salads and Raitas: Cashews can also add a twist to salads and yogurt-based raitas. Chopped or roasted cashews bring a nice crunch to simple vegetable salads or fruit salads, especially with fresh ingredients like cucumber, tomato, or even tropical fruits like mango and pineapple. Adding cashews to raita or yogurt dips provides a refreshing change and pairs well with spices like cumin and black salt.

Toppings for Rice Dishes: Cashews are a delightful topping that adds flavor and crunch to various rice dishes. Some popular dishes include Biryani, Pulao, Jeera Rice, Kashmiri Pulao, and Coconut Rice. Overall, cashews make these rice dishes more enjoyable and special.

Snacks and Chaat: Cashews are used in snacks and street foods, adding texture and flavor. Examples include Bhel Puri, a popular chaat made with puffed rice and vegetables, often garnished with cashews, and Samosa, a savory pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas, sometimes topped with cashews for extra crunch. Cashews are also included in Kachori, a spicy pastry filled with lentils and spices, and they can be mixed into a healthy trail mix with roasted almonds, roasted pistachios, dried blueberries, dried cranberries, and raisins.

Breads and Parathas: Cashew paste can be mixed into bread and stuffed parathas for extra flavor. Ubbati (or Puranpoli) is a sweet flatbread filled with a mixture of jaggery and cashew paste, enjoyed during festivals, while stuffed parathas may feature a filling of mashed vegetables and ground cashews.

Smoothies and Drinks: Cashews can be added to beverages to add creaminess and nutrition. Kesar Badam Milk is a traditional drink made with milk, saffron, and ground cashews, while fruit smoothies made with yogurt and cashew paste create a rich texture.

Stuffed Dishes: Cashews are often used as stuffing in various dishes for flavor and nutrition. Stuffed Bell Peppers and Stuffed Zucchini are examples where cashews are combined with spices and vegetables for a delicious filling.

2. Nutritional Benefits

Cashews are more than just a delicious addition—they pack a punch when it comes to nutrition:

Heart Health: Cashews are rich in heart-friendly fats, specifically monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. They also contain magnesium, beneficial for cardiovascular health.

Protein and Energy Boost: Cashews offer a good amount of protein, making them an ideal ingredient for vegetarians looking to increase their protein intake. Their calorie density also provides lasting energy, making them a perfect addition to meals that sustain energy levels.

Antioxidants for Immunity: Cashews contain vitamins like E and K along with various antioxidants that support immune health and reduce inflammation.

3. Tips for Cooking with Cashews in Indian Dishes

Soak for Creamy Texture: Soaking cashews before blending makes them easier to process and results in a smoother paste, perfect for gravies and desserts.

Roast for Better Flavor: Roasting cashews brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. This step is crucial for recipes like Kaju Katli or any dish where cashews are used as a garnish.

Balance Spices with Cashews: Cashews absorb spices well and can mellow out overly spicy dishes. If a curry feels too hot, adding a bit of cashew paste can help balance the flavors.

Use Cashew Butter as a Dairy Substitute: Cashew butter is an excellent substitute for cream or ghee in vegan or dairy-free versions of Indian recipes, adding richness without altering the dish’s flavor profile.

Cashews are a key ingredient in Indian cooking. Their creamy texture and rich flavor add a special touch to many Indian dishes, like gravies, desserts, and rice meals. They are also a nutritious snack, packed with healthy fats and proteins. In Indian culture, cashews are often linked to celebrations and feasts. They not only make our meals tastier but also help us connect to the rich flavors and traditions of Indian cuisine.