About Chocolate Covered Cashews

What are cashews good for?

Cashews are exceptionally good for your health for a variety of reasons. Here’s why:

Cashews are nutrient-rich. Low in sugar and high in fiber, cashews contain heart-healthy fats and plant protein. Cashews are also rich in vital minerals such as selenium, zinc, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus, which are all critical for energy production, neurological health, immunity, and bone density. In addition, cashews are rich in various phytochemicals (micronutrients), proteins, and other antioxidants.
Cashews can be part of your weight loss plan. Because they are so rich in fiber and protein, cashews can help you feel full without as many calories. In fact, cashews appear to provide fewer calories than initially thought.
Cashews are heart-healthy. According to some studies, cashews may help to lower blood pressure, triglycerides, and even LDL cholesterol.

What are cashews?

Contrary to popular belief, cashews are actually seeds and not nuts. They can be found on the bottom of cashew apples, which are the fruit of the cashew tree, a tree native to Brazil. And believe it or not, these cashew “apples” are edible and even considered delicacies in Brazil and other tropical areas where they grow. In the U.S., we’re only familiar with the “nut,” a firm but slightly spongy seed with a wonderful flavor.

You can’t just pick a cashew nut off the apple and eat it, however. The shell of the nuts contains a caustic resin that is not fit for consumption. These shells must be removed before they’re deemed edible. In fact, this resin, known as cashew balm, is used to make industrial varnishes and insecticides. Interestingly enough, cashews belong to the same scientifically classified family as the mango and pistachio nut.

What do cashews taste like?

Cashews have a moderately firm texture and a slightly sweet, mildly nutty taste. The sweet and nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with milk chocolate or dark chocolate covering. Just imagine how good you’d feel knowing that when you’re eating chocolate-covered cashews, you’re actually eating a healthy guilt-free snack that will please your taste buds. But cashews are so versatile, they can be used for savory dishes and snacks as well. You may end up buying cashews by the pound when you discover their many culinary uses.