Whether cashews are hard or soft depends on whether they are raw or roasted. Unroasted cashews are relatively soft, while roasted cashews are harder.
Unroasted Cashews: Soft and Sweet
As mentioned in the references, unroasted cashews have a notably softer texture compared to their roasted counterparts. They also possess a slightly sweet flavor. This softer texture makes them ideal for:
- Dairy-free alternatives: They're used to make milk, cheese, cream, and sour cream alternatives.
- Culinary applications: Their soft texture blends easily into sauces and dips.
Roasted Cashews: Hard and Crunchy
Roasting cashews removes moisture and causes changes in the cashew's structure making it harder and more crunchy. The roasting process also brings out the nutty flavor, making them more desirable to many people.
Summary Table: Cashew Texture
| Type of Cashew | Texture | Flavor | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unroasted | Soft | Sweet | Dairy-free alternatives, sauces, dips |
| Roasted | Hard, Crunchy | Nutty, Roasted | Snacking, culinary applications |
