Cashew nuts are a delicious snack that is enjoyed around the world. They grow on cashew trees which are mostly grown in Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal in India. Like most nuts, cashews also have several health benefits. They have been linked to better blood sugar control, weight loss, and improved heart health. Besides eating as is, this delicious nut is used in cooking in a variety of ways. Many use cashews in desserts, smoothies, curries, and salads because it enhances the taste of food and gives a creamy texture. However, cashews can become soggy if not stored correctly. Since cashews have high oil levels, they can produce a pungent and stale smell. To avoid this, follow these easy tips to increase the shelf life of cashews.
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Here Are 5 Easy Tips To Store Cashews Correctly:
1. Roast Before Storing
Roasted cashews are delicious and roasting also helps in increasing the shelf life of cashews. Roasting the nuts aids in removing excess moisture which can lead to spoilage. Roast cashews in a pan, once they turn slightly brown, take them out on a plate and let them cool down properly. Make sure that you don't store hot cashews.
Cashews should be eaten for a healthy heart during pregnancy Photo Credit: iStock
2. Keep In An Airtight Container
One of the most important things to keep in mind while storing cashews is to store them in the right container. Store cashews in an airtight container, as it will prevent them from getting exposed to air and becoming stale sooner.
3. Store In Zip-Lock Bag
Another way to store cashews is by keeping them in a zip-lock bag. Zip-lock bags have a tight seal that prevents moisture from getting in, which will keep the cashews fresh and crispy. Ensure to use a fresh zip-lock bag to store cashews.
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4. Store In A Cool And Dry Place
Another way of increasing the shelf life of cashews is by storing them in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Cashews become rancid when kept in heat or sunlight. The best place to store them is in the kitchen pantry, in order to maintain their texture and taste.
Store it in kitchen pantry. Photo Credit: unsplash
5. Keep In The Fridge
If you are likely to use cashews soon, then it's okay to keep them at room temperature. However, if you have got cashew nuts in bulk and are not planning to use them any time soon, then storing them in an air-tight container and keeping them in the fridge will be a good option. This will prevent cashews from getting rancid.
Note: If you see mold growing in your cashews, instantly discard the package.