The cashew tree produces a fleshy, pear-shaped fruit along with the well-known cashew nut. While most people are familiar with the nut, the cashew fruit is unfamiliar to many. So what does cashew fruit taste like? The flavor is truly unique and distinctive.
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A Sweet, Exotic Taste
People often describe fresh cashew fruit as having a sweet, exotic flavor unlike any other fruit. The soft, juicy flesh has notes of mango, pineapple, and apple, with hints of strawberry. However, the exact taste is difficult to pinpoint. The rich complexity of flavors results in an experience all its own.
Mild Astringency Balances Sweetness
While predominantly sweet, cashew fruit also possesses a mild astringency that balances out the sugary taste. This prevents the flavor from becoming cloyingly sweet or overwhelming. The subtle tartness rounds out the fruity sweetness nicely.
Aroma: Floral, Perfume-Like
Not only is the flavor remarkable, but the aroma stands out as well. Cashew fruit emits a tropical, floral scent reminiscent of perfume. In fact, the Portuguese call it “caju-de-cheiro” which translates to “perfume cashew.” Whiffs of its fragrance evoke a tropical essence.
Juicy Texture, Buttery When Ripe
In terms of texture, cashew fruit has a juicy flesh similar to a ripe pear or guava. When fully ripe, the soft flesh takes on a creamy, buttery quality. The skin is delicate and easily peeled away. Inside, the flesh surrounds the coveted cashew nut.
Nutty, Astringent Skin and Juice
While the flesh tastes sweet and fruity, the skin and juice contain high levels of tannins which impart an astringent, almost medicinal flavor. The skin is too bitter to enjoy on its own. However, the juice is often used to make beverages.
Regional Differences in Flavor Profiles
Just as apples come in different varieties, cashew fruits vary in taste depending on the region. Brazilian cashews highlight more fruity, tropical notes while Vietnamese cashews feature woodier, nutty undertones. The ripening stage also affects the balance of flavors.
An Acquired Taste Enjoyed Locally
To those unfamiliar with its profile, cashew fruit has an unusual taste that is an acquired one. In areas where cashews grow, the fruit is eaten fresh or made into sweets, juices, and alcoholic beverages that locals adore. The unique flavor profile intrigues those bold enough to try this tropical treat.
Techniques Bring Out the Best Flavors
Eating fresh cashew fruit takes some finesse. The skin can be bitter, so peeling is recommended. Once the delicate skin is removed, the soft flesh can simply be eaten as finger food. For best results, try crushing or blending the flesh into a juice to release the full spectrum of sweet, floral flavors and aromatic scent.
A Unique Culinary Experience
Partaking of the intriguing cashew fruit offers a singular culinary experience for the senses. The sweet, perfumed flavor provides taste buds with a tropical punch of flavors. Its distinctive profile showcases notes unlike any other. For the adventurous eater, a chance to savor the cashew’s fleshy fruit is an exotic opportunity not to be missed.
