National Cashew Day 2024: History, Significance, Quotes, Wishes And More

Last Updated:November 23, 2024, 06:32 IST

Cashews have contributed significantly to culinary traditions by giving a variety of dishes a distinctive flavour and texture.

National Cashew Day is observed on November 23 to celebrate the beloved nut for partying and snacking. (Image: Shutterstock)

NATIONAL CASHEW DAY 2024: National Cashew Day is observed on November 23 annually. The term “cashew” is derived from the Portuguese word “caju” which is derived from the Tupian word “acajú,” referring to the fruit of the cashew tree.

Cashews have a certain appeal, whether they are combined into creamy cashew butter, added to salads, or eaten in a bowl of mixed nuts. They are rich in nutrients in addition to being delicious. With its abundance of protein, healthy fats, and vital minerals, cashews are a superfood.

Cashew trees are native to Brazil’s Amazon rainforest, but Portuguese explorers spread their popularity across continents. Today, cashews are grown commercially in Brazil, Vietnam, India, and several African nations. In addition to being a common snack, cashews are used to manufacture cashew butter, cashew cheese, and cashew oil. Traditional Maya medicine uses cashew tree bark or leaves to produce herbal tea.

National Cashew Day 2024: History and Significance

People’s affection and appreciation for cashews is where National Cashew Day got its start. The day is thought to have been created to celebrate cashews’ rich cultural heritage and history around the globe. Since ancient times, cashews have been grown and used in many different types of food, especially in Asian and African nations.

When cashews were first discovered in Brazil in 1558, Europeans reportedly thought they were inedible because they contained anacardic acid, which irritates skin. However, after studying the Tupi-Indians, the Portuguese learned how to roast the seeds to get rid of the irritants and became aware of how great cashews tasted. They made wine out of the fruit’s flesh as well.

Following their introduction by Portuguese missionaries to Goa, in 1560, cashews quickly gained appeal throughout Southeast Asia and Africa. When cashews were brought to the US in 1905, the demand for them exploded as Americans discovered their distinct flavour.

Cashews have contributed significantly to culinary traditions by giving a variety of dishes a distinctive flavour and texture. A reminder to enjoy this rich heritage and honour the part cashews play in our culinary adventures is provided by National Cashew Day.

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National Cashew Day 2024: 5 Fun Facts

1. Cashews are seeds rather than nuts. Technically, they fall under the category of drupes, which are single-seeded fruits.
2. In the 16th century, Portuguese traders brought cashews to India from their home in northern Brazil.
3. The cashew tree produces both cashew nuts and cashew apples, which are pear-shaped fruits used in juices, jams, and chutneys.
4. The outer shell of cashews contains a toxic compound that can irritate skin, which is why they are always sold shelled.
5. Cashews are often referred to as “kidney nuts” in several regions of the world due to their kidney-like appearance.

National Cashew Day 2024: 5 Wishes

1. The most unique aspect of cashews is that they are high in minerals and are adored by everyone. Happy National Cashew Day 2024.
2. I hope you have a wonderful National Cashew Day. To keep happy and healthy, always munch on these elegant and resourceful treats.
3. In honour of National Cashew Day, I hope cashews are always available to go with your beverages and give your snacks a nutritious twist.
4. With nutritious and flavourful cashews by your side, life is always better. Wishes for a cashew-filled National Cashew Day.
5. Cashews are the most amazing thing, whether you want to chew on anything to go with your drinks or just as a snack. Greetings on National Cashew Day.

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National Cashew Day 2024: Ways To Celebrate

Here are a few ideas for commemorating this unique day:

• Cashew Tasting Party: Throw a cashew-tasting party with your loved ones. Offer a range of cashew nibbles, including roasted, salted, and flavoured cashews, and invite everyone to experiment with different pairings.
• Cashew Farm Visit: If you have the opportunity, go to a cashew farm to learn more about cashew production and processing. Learn to appreciate the trip these nuts make from the tree to your plate.
• Cashew-Inspired Crafts: Use your imagination to create crafts like jewellery, artwork, or handmade candles that are inspired by cashews. Show off your passion for cashews in original ways by using your creativity.