Yes, cashew apples are edible.
Edible Uses of Cashew Apples
The cashew apple, the fleshy stem of the cashew fruit, is not actually a fruit but an accessory fruit. The cashew nut is the true fruit of the plant. The cashew apple is known for its unique flavor and can be used in various culinary applications.
Fresh Consumption
- Cashew apples can be eaten fresh when fully ripe. The taste is described as sweet and slightly astringent.
Cooking Applications
- Curries: In some countries, the cashew apple is cooked in curries, adding a distinct flavor to the dish.
- Preserves and Jams: Cashew apples are used to make preserves, chutneys, and jams in countries like India and Brazil.
Fermented Products
- Vinegar and Citric Acid: Cashew apples can be fermented to produce vinegar and citric acid.
- Alcoholic Drinks: Cashew apples can be fermented to make alcoholic beverages.
Nutritional Content
While not mentioned in the reference, cashew apples are also known to be rich in Vitamin C, which is a valuable benefit.
Summary of Edible Cashew Apple Uses
| Use | Description |
|---|---|
| Fresh Eating | Consumed raw when ripe, offering a sweet, slightly astringent taste |
| Cooked Dishes | Incorporated into curries for unique flavor |
| Preserves & Jams | Made into jams, chutneys and other preserves in certain regions |
| Fermentation | Used to create vinegar, citric acid, and alcoholic drinks |
