Page Contents
What is a cashew apple and what does it taste like?
The cashew apple is a fascinating fruit that is often overshadowed by its more familiar counterpart, the cashew nut. While many people are familiar with the cashew nut and enjoy it as a snack or as an ingredient in various dishes, not everyone is aware of the cashew apple and its unique characteristics. In this article, we will explore what a cashew apple is, what it tastes like, and how it is commonly used.
Understanding the Cashew Apple
The cashew apple, scientifically known as a pseudo-fruit, is the edible accessory fruit that grows on the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale). It is important to note that the cashew apple is not a true fruit in the botanical sense. Instead, it is a swollen stalk that develops from the receptacle of the cashew flower. Other examples of pseudo-fruits include strawberries, pears, apples, and pineapples.
Flavor and aroma
What does a cashew apple taste like? The taste of a cashew apple has been described as a combination of sweetness at the front of the mouth with a hint of sourness, reminiscent of an apple. Its aroma is characteristic of a fruit – sweet, juicy and fruity. Like many fruits, the taste of the cashew apple becomes sweeter as it ripens on the tree.
Handling and Shelf Life
Cashew apples are known to be touch-sensitive, meaning that they are sensitive to handling and contact. The fruit is highly perishable and does not last long before spoiling. Therefore, it is important to consume cashew apples close to where they are harvested. The longer the fruit remains on the tree before being harvested, the sweeter it becomes. However, care must be taken when handling cashew apples as the plant exudes a sap that contains cardol and anacardic acid, substances similar to poison ivy. Burns and dermatitis can occur if proper precautions are not taken.
Uses of cashew apples
Although cashew apples have a relatively short shelf life, they are used in a variety of culinary applications. The most common use of cashew apples is in the production of beverages and fruit spreads such as jams and jellies. It should be noted, however, that the majority of cashew cultivation is devoted to the production of the valuable cashew nut. On larger cashew farms, cashew apples are typically discarded or consumed by livestock. However, on smaller farms, cashew apples may be collected and sold at local markets or used by fruit and vegetable processing companies.
In India, cashew apples also play an important role in the production of a unique liquor called Feni. Feni is a geographically limited product and can only be legally called feni if it is made in Goa. Similar to ouzo and champagne, feni has its own distinct regional identity.
In conclusion
While the cashew nut often steals the spotlight, the cashew apple is a fascinating fruit with its own unique characteristics and uses. It offers a delightful combination of sweet and sour flavors, similar to an apple, and has a fragrant aroma. Although it is highly perishable and requires careful handling, cashew apples are still used in a variety of culinary applications such as beverages and fruit spreads. So the next time you enjoy a handful of cashews, remember the fascinating fruit from which they originated-the cashew apple.
FAQS
Answer: A cashew is the edible auxiliary fruit that grows on the cashew tree. It is a swollen stem that develops from the receptacle of the cashew flower.
What does a cashew apple taste like?
Answer: The taste of a cashew apple is a delightful blend of sweetness with a hint of sourness, similar to an apple.
Is a Cashew Apple a real fruit?
Answer: No, the Cashew Apple is not a true fruit in the botanical sense. It is classified as a pseudo-fruit, along with other examples such as strawberries, pears, apples, and pineapples.
Why is the cashew sensitive to touch?
Answer: The cashew apple is touch-sensitive, which means it is sensitive to handling and contact. Handling the fruit accelerates the rotting process. This sensitivity is a natural defense mechanism of the plant.
How long does a cashew last before it rots?
Answer: Cashew apples have a relatively short shelf life and do not last long before spoiling. Therefore, they should be consumed close to where they were harvested.
What are some common uses for Cashew Apples?
Answer: Cashew apples are often used in the production of beverages and fruit spreads such as jams and jellies. However, most cashew cultivation focuses on the valuable cashew nut rather than the fruit itself.