Cashew Cream: Properties, Preparation And Uses
Cashews, like other varieties of dried fruit, are ideal to eat alone or to accompany other foods. In addition, when prepared in the form of a spread, they retain their nutritional properties. Have you ever tried cashew cream?
Vegetable creams are often made with nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, pistachios and cashews, etc.) rich in nutrients, including healthy omega 3, 6 and 9 fats. delicious, but they can also improve the quality of our diet.
Dried fruit is, at the same time, a source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, potassium, magnesium and other phytochemicals which, once assimilated, help to make our body functions possible. Since many nutrients are concentrated in the peel, it is better to eat it raw rather than roasted.
What are the properties of cashew cream?
The cashew cream, with a soft and creamy texture, is often used to make sweet recipes, but it is also good as a dip or spread in savory dishes. It can also be used to make vegan cheeses. Let’s see its main benefits below.
Protects cardiovascular health
Thanks to the fiber and healthy fatty acids, cashew cream helps to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It also reduces the risk of heart disease such as arrhythmias or the formation of atheroma plaques. Its consumption is also associated with optimal brain functioning.
Improve intestinal health
Cashews contain dietary fiber which improves gastrointestinal activity. Regular consumption, therefore, prevents ailments such as constipation and the formation of diverticula.
Promotes healthy skin and hair
The copper, zinc and B-complex vitamins provided by cashews protect the health of the skin and hair. They are essential to the nervous system and contribute to the production of collagen, a fundamental component for the beauty of skin and hair.
How to make cashew cream?
To prepare the cashew cream it is necessary to use natural dried fruit. In other words, cashews don’t have to be roasted or fried. Equip yourself with a food processor or a high-powered blender.
Preparation
- Blend the cashews for 2 to 3 minutes until a paste forms. Then, with the help of a spatula, mix and blend again.
- Repeat this operation as many times as necessary to obtain a cream.
- You will understand that it is ready when the dough is smooth and spreadable.
You will get the typical cashew cream, but you can add a little water to get a softer consistency. You can also flavor it with stevia, sugar, cocoa, chilli, salt or spices.
Some uses of cashew cream in the kitchen
The most interesting aspect of cashew cream is that it can be combined with different dishes. Its flavor goes well with many other foods, and is ideal for breakfast or as a snack. How can it be used?
Spreadable cream on toast
One of the most common uses is spreadable cream which can replace butter or cheese. You can use it in the sweet version, enriched with cocoa, stevia and cinnamon, or salted, with chilli, salt, garlic and parsley.
Filling for cakes
If you want it to become the filling of a sweet cake, it is not recommended to add water to the cream, it is better to use it thick. You just have to prepare a base of your choice, fill with the cashew cream and decorate with strawberries, peaches or dried fruit.
Ice cream
For this recipe you will have to blend a frozen banana and then mix it with 2 tablespoons of cashew cream. You can sweeten and add grated coconut, chocolate chips or frozen fruit. A great idea for preparing vegan ice creams of various flavors.
Vegan cheese
To prepare a vegan cheese with cashew cream, you need to add salt, seasonings to taste, a tablespoon of cornstarch or thickener and cook everything over low heat. In this way it will become more consistent.
Cashew cream on your favorite dishes
Cashew cream is very versatile : you can spread it on bread or rusks, or use it to prepare ice cream, desserts and other delicious recipes.
Its moderate consumption improves the quality of the diet. Thanks to its nutrient content, it is ideal for protecting our health. Would you like to taste it?
