Discover the Best Cashew-Inspired Dishes from Every Continent

Last updated 5 months ago | Originally Published: December 28, 2023

Cashews, those crescent-shaped nuts known for their health benefits, buttery texture, and rich flavor, have carved a unique niche in culinary traditions around the world. 

Originating from the tropical regions of Brazil, these nuts have traveled far and wide, finding a place in kitchens across the globe. Unlike other nuts, cashews bring a distinctive blend of sweetness and creaminess, making them a favored ingredient in both savory dishes and sweet treats.

This article embarks on an exciting exploration of how various cultures integrate cashews into some of their most celebrated dishes. 

From the spiced flavors of Moroccan cuisine to the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of the USA and everyone else in between! We’ll discuss how this humble nut adds depth and character to every dish it’s included in! 

Our aim isn’t just to share recipes but to weave a narrative that shows how cashews have been embraced and adapted by different culinary traditions, reflecting the creativity and cultural heritage of each region. 

Join us as we uncover the unique roles cashews play in these famous dishes, bringing a touch of global flavor to your table, regardless of where you live! 

Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Cashews

Moroccan cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and aromas that stand as a testament to the country’s rich history and cultural diversity. 

Influenced by Berber, Moorish, Mediterranean, and Arab heritages, it’s a cuisine that prioritizes a harmonious blend of spices and textures. Key ingredients include olives, lemons, and an array of spices like cumin, coriander, saffron, and cinnamon, which create distinctive, flavor-packed dishes.

The Chosen Dish: Chicken Tagine with Cashews

Tagine, the quintessential Moroccan dish named after the conical clay pot it’s cooked in, perfectly embodies the spirit of Moroccan cooking. This particular variant, Chicken Tagine, holds a special place in Moroccan homes and restaurants, cherished for its tender meat, rich spices, and subtle infusion of flavors developed through slow cooking. 

The dish has deep roots in Moroccan history, reflecting the country’s trade routes and cultural interactions, particularly with the Middle East, where nuts like cashews are widely used.

Cashews in Chicken Tagine

Cashews offer a unique twist to the traditional Chicken Tagine. Their creamy texture and subtle sweetness complement the savory spices and tender chicken, adding a layer of richness without overpowering the dish. 

In Moroccan cooking, the integration of cashews isn’t just about flavor but also about adding a luxurious texture and nutritional value to the meal.

Traditional Recipe: Chicken Tagine with Cashews

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and ginger.
2. In a tagine or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
4. Return the chicken to the pot. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook on low heat for 30 minutes.
6. Add cashews and dried apricots. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken is tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy this heartwarming dish that brings a piece of Moroccan culinary heritage to your table, showcasing how cashews can elegantly enhance a traditional recipe.

Introducing the American Cashew Apple Pie

American cuisine is a rich mosaic, reflecting the vast cultural diversity of the country. Influenced by a multitude of ethnicities and historical factors, it varies greatly from region to region. 

This diversity is seen in the wide array of ingredients and flavors used, from the classic barbecue of the South to the seafood traditions of the coasts. 

American dishes often embrace simplicity and comfort, yet they are open to innovation and fusion, making the cuisine both familiar and exciting.

The Selected Dish: Apple Pie with a Cashew Crumble

Apple Pie, an iconic American dessert, is deeply ingrained in the country’s culinary identity. Often referred to as a symbol of American prosperity and national pride, the dish has roots dating back to the influence of the British and Dutch on early American cooking. 

Over time, it has evolved into a staple of American cuisine, celebrated in pop culture, and enjoyed in homes and gatherings across the nation.

Role of Cashews in This Dish

Incorporating cashews into the classic Apple Pie adds a unique and modern twist. The cashews, with their rich buttery flavor, blend perfectly with the sweet and tart apples, adding a delightful crunch and depth to the dessert. 

This twist not only enhances the texture but also introduces a subtle nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon and nutmeg spices typically used in the pie.

Classic Recipe: Apple Pie with Cashew Crumble

Ingredients:

• Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 6 cups thinly sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for crumble)
• 3/4 cup cashews, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges.
3. In a large bowl, mix sliced apples, sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture into the pie crust.
4. For the crumble: In a separate bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, 3/4 cup flour, and chopped cashews until it forms a crumbly mixture.
5. Sprinkle the cashew crumble evenly over the apple filling.
6. Bake for about 50 minutes or until the crust and crumble topping are golden brown and the apples are tender.
7. Let it cool before serving. Enjoy this classic American dessert with a delightful cashew twist!

This recipe offers a fresh take on the traditional Apple Pie, showcasing how a simple addition like cashews can elevate a well-loved classic. Click here to get started; we have cashews by the pound.

Cashew Ratatouille Captures the Essence of French Cusine

French cuisine is celebrated for its finesse and precision, reflecting a deep respect for culinary traditions and ingredients. 

At its heart, French cooking is about balancing flavors, textures, and aromas to create harmonious dishes. It emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the careful preparation of meals is seen as an art form. 

French chefs are known for their rigorous techniques and attention to detail, which contribute to the renowned sophistication of French dishes.

The Chosen French Dish: Ratatouille with a Cashew Twist

Ratatouille, a beloved French dish from Provence, is a vibrant vegetable stew that epitomizes the simplicity and elegance of French cooking. 

Traditionally made with tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and a blend of herbs, this dish has humble origins but has been embraced by gourmet chefs and home cooks alike. It is a celebration of fresh produce and the subtlety of Provencal flavors.

Integrating Cashews into Ratatouille

Adding cashews to Ratatouille introduces a novel texture and a gentle, nutty flavor that complements the medley of vegetables. 

The cashews offer a subtle richness, enhancing the dish without overwhelming its intrinsic flavors. This addition aligns with the French approach of subtly elevating dishes with nuanced flavors and textures.

Recipe: Ratatouille with Cashew Garnish

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, cubed
• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup roasted cashews, roughly chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add bell peppers, eggplant, and zucchini. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Mix in the tomatoes, thyme, and rosemary—season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
5. Sprinkle roasted cashews on top before serving.

This Ratatouille with Cashew Garnish is a delightful fusion of traditional French cooking with a creative twist, showcasing how cashews can be elegantly woven into classic French dishes. Click here to buy cashews by the pound here at Candy Retailer!

Discover and Try the Real Chinese Kung Pao Cashew Chicken

Chinese cuisine, one of the world’s most diverse culinary heritages, is characterized by its sophisticated cooking techniques and rich flavor profiles. 

Known for its emphasis on balance and contrast in taste and texture, Chinese food varies significantly across its different regions – from the spicy dishes of Sichuan to the subtle flavors of Cantonese cooking. 

A common thread in Chinese cuisine is the art of stir-frying, a technique that swiftly cooks ingredients while retaining their flavor and nutrients.

The Selected Dish: Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken, a globally recognized dish from the Sichuan province, is a stellar example of Chinese culinary expertise. 

Known for its spicy and piquant flavor, the dish features a tantalizing mix of chicken, chili peppers, and Sichuan peppercorns. 

It’s a dish that not only offers a burst of flavor but also reflects the historical and regional aspects of Chinese cooking, having evolved over time to suit various tastes and preferences.

The Role of Cashews in Kung Pao Chicken

Integrating cashews into Kung Pao Chicken adds a delightful twist to this classic dish. The cashews offer a contrasting texture to the tender chicken and a nutty flavor that complements the dish’s fiery spices. 

This inclusion is a nod to the adaptability of Chinese cuisine and its openness to incorporating diverse ingredients.

Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken with Cashews

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 8 dried red chili peppers
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
• 1 large red bell pepper, cubed
• 1/2 cup roasted cashews
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix chicken with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients. Set aside.
3. Heat oil in a wok over high heat. Add chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, stir-frying briefly until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken and stir-fry until it turns white.
5. Add garlic, ginger, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for a few minutes.
6. Pour in the sauce and mix until it thickens.
7. Add the cashews and green onions, tossing everything together.
8. Serve hot with steamed rice.

This Kung Pao Chicken with Cashews brings an exciting blend of flavors and textures, offering an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine with a creative touch. Take action today by scoring a 1lb bag of fresh cashews here at Candy Retailer.

Enjoy Authentic Brazilian Flavors with Cashew Moqueca

Brazilian cuisine, a reflection of the country’s vast cultural diversity, is known for its bold and varied flavors. 

Influenced by Indigenous, African, and Portuguese culinary traditions, it features a rich array of ingredients, from tropical fruits and fish to a variety of meats and grains. 

Brazilian cooking often emphasizes hearty and robust flavors, with regional dishes showcasing the country’s diverse agricultural bounty.

The Chosen Brazilian Dish: Moqueca with Cashews

Moqueca, a traditional Brazilian fish stew, embodies the essence of Brazilian coastal cooking. Originating from the states of Bahia and Espirito Santo, this dish is deeply rooted in both Indigenous and African culinary practices. 

Moqueca is known for its rich, coconut milk-based sauce, vibrant with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and coriander. It’s a dish that tells a story of cultural fusion and local traditions, often served during communal gatherings and special occasions.

Role of Cashews in Moqueca

Incorporating cashews into Moqueca adds a unique twist to this classic dish. The cashews lend a creamy texture and a nutty flavor to the stew, enhancing the richness of the coconut milk and balancing the spices and herbs. This addition aligns with Brazilian culinary creativity, where native ingredients like cashews are often used to add depth and richness to traditional recipes.

Recipe: Moqueca with Cashews

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds firm white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia), cut into chunks
• 2 limes, juiced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 bunch of fresh coriander, chopped
• 1/2 cup roasted cashews, crushed

Instructions:

1. Marinate the fish in lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper for about 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell peppers until soft.
3. Add the marinated fish, coconut milk, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the fish is cooked through.
5. Stir in the crushed cashews and half of the chopped coriander.
6. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Garnish with the remaining coriander before serving.

Serve this Moqueca with Cashews alongside rice, allowing the creamy, rich flavors of this Brazilian dish to shine, enhanced by the subtle, nutty touch of cashews. To begin, click this link and pick up a pound of fresh cashews here at Candy Retailer!

Try Australian Cashew Bush Tomato Chicken

Australian cuisine is a dynamic and evolving blend of indigenous ingredients, British colonial influences, and the diverse flavors brought by immigrants from around the world. 

Known for its emphasis on fresh produce, seafood, and meats, modern Australian cooking often involves innovative and eclectic approaches to traditional dishes. 

The cuisine reflects the country’s rich cultural tapestry and is increasingly recognized for its use of native ingredients, often referred to as ‘bush tucker,’ which includes items like kangaroo, wattleseed, and bush tomatoes.

The Selected Australian Dish: Bush Tomato Chicken with Cashews

Bush Tomato Chicken is an example of contemporary Australian cuisine that incorporates traditional indigenous ingredients into modern dishes. 

Bush tomatoes, small desert fruits with a strong, tangy flavor, are native to the arid regions of Australia and have been used by Aboriginal people for centuries. 

This dish has gained popularity for its unique taste and represents the fusion of old and new culinary traditions in Australia.

Incorporation of Cashews in Bush Tomato Chicken

Adding cashews to Bush Tomato Chicken introduces a creamy, nutty element that complements the tangy flavor of the bush tomatoes and the savory chicken. 

This addition is reflective of the innovative spirit of Australian cuisine, where chefs are keen to experiment with different textures and flavors to create unique and memorable dishes.

Recipe: Bush Tomato Chicken with Cashews

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup bush tomatoes, chopped (or sun-dried tomatoes as an alternative)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1/2 cup roasted cashews, chopped
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add the bush tomatoes and cook for a few minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and add the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the cream and cashews, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This Bush Tomato Chicken with Cashews is a delightful representation of Australian culinary innovation, bringing together the traditional and the contemporary in a harmonious and flavorful dish. To start, click this link to pick up a 1lb fresh supply of cashews here at Candy Retailer.

Inspire Us with Your Own Cashew World Cusine Recipe

Our culinary excursion across continents has vividly illustrated the remarkable versatility of cashews in the culinary world. 

This topic underscores how a single ingredient can transcend cultural and geographic boundaries, bringing unique flavors and textures to a variety of dishes. 

Cashews, with their rich and creamy profile, have seamlessly blended into and enhanced the essence of each of these iconic dishes, demonstrating their ability to elevate a meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

We encourage you, the reader, to not just read but to bring these recipes to life in your own kitchen. Embrace the spirit of culinary exploration and see how the addition of cashews can transform your meals. Each dish offers an opportunity to experience a piece of global cuisine right from your home.

As you embark on this culinary adventure, we invite you to share your experiences. Did you put your own twist on these recipes? Do you have a favorite cashew-infused dish from your own cultural heritage? 

Share your stories, suggestions, and recipes. Let’s continue to celebrate the diverse and rich ways cashews can be enjoyed in dishes around the world, creating a tapestry of flavors that connect us all.

You can buy cashews by the pound here at Candy Retailer by clicking the link.