The Best Cashews

Buying Guide

If you’re shopping for cashews, you probably already know if you like the way they taste. However, manufacturers add many different flavors to the nuts. You can easily find plain nuts or packages with many flavors.

Whether you buy a sampler pack with several flavors, decide on just one flavor profile or go for plain cashews, consider the size of the package and who else in your home might help you eat a flavor you find you don’t prefer. Smaller packages may be less cost-effective, but they may be a better way to try new flavors, just in case you find you don’t like one.

Speaking of wasting food, buying the correct quantity of cashews is important. That way, you won’t run out, but you won’t have to throw any of them away. Nuts do go bad eventually.

Pay attention to the size of the container you purchase. Sometimes, images online can be deceptive, making it appear you’re buying more or less than you think.

How will you use your cashews? If you’re going to eat them as a snack, then you can buy any type or flavor you prefer. But if you’re going to put them in a trail mix or cook with them, you’ll most likely want them to be plain. If you plan to use them in baking, ensure they’re unsalted, too.

Cashews have a variety of vitamins and minerals that have many health benefits. They’re a terrific source of plant protein and heart-healthy fats. They contain copper, fiber, magnesium, and manganate. These essential elements aid in proper digestion and help your brain function properly.

While cashews can be part of a healthy diet, they’re not for everyone. They are high in fat and, if salted, may be high in sodium.

Always consult a medical professional before making any dietary changes. Be careful giving high-allergen foods like nuts to children for the first time, and be sure to break whole or half cashews into smaller pieces for young children.

• Start small: buy a little package of cashews to gauge how much your family will consume.
• Branch out: cashews come in all kinds of flavors and with a variety of seasonings. Be adventurous and try something new.
• You can buy cashews in bulk and portion them into reusable baggies or small to-go containers. That way, you can reduce food and plastic waste.
• However you store them, make sure it’s in airtight containers to prevent the cashews from getting stale.
• If you have cashews nearing expiration, look up recipes that call for them. Many Asian dishes require nuts like cashews. You can also try making homemade cashew milk.