Question
Here is the question : WHICH OF THESE “NUTS” ACTUALLY GROW FROM FRUIT ON A TREE?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Peanut
- Walnut
- Hazelnut
- Cashew
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
While cashews grow on trees, they’re a little different from other nuts. Each cashew sprouts from the bottom of a fake fruit, a cashew apple that looks like a bell pepper, and is native to Brazil. Of course, this implies that each fruit on the tree yields only one nut, which explains why cashews are so expensive at the grocery store. It is also difficult to harvest them since they must be separated from the ‘apple,’ roasted, peeled, and so on. To make matters worse, when cracked open, the shell emits caustic liquid, so harvesting is better left to professional employees.
The Fascinating Cashew: The Nut that Grows from Fruit on a Tree
When it comes to nuts, we often associate them with being the seeds or kernels found within the hard shells of various fruits. However, there is one nut that defies this common perception and grows in a rather unique and surprising way. The cashew, despite being called a nut, actually grows from a fruit on a tree. In this article, we delve into the intriguing world of the cashew, exploring its origin, growth process, and the culinary and nutritional aspects that make it a truly remarkable fruit-nut hybrid.
The cashew tree, scientifically known as Anacardium occidentale, is native to northeastern Brazil but is now grown in several tropical regions around the world. This evergreen tree is revered for its dual bounty, producing both the cashew apple and the cashew nut. The cashew apple, which is the true fruit of the tree, is oval-shaped and reddish or yellow in color. It has a sweet, juicy, and slightly acidic flavor, making it a popular ingredient in juices, jams, and preserves.
However, it is the cashew nut that steals the spotlight when it comes to the cashew tree. The cashew nut, also referred to as the cashew kernel, is attached to the bottom of the cashew apple. Upon closer inspection, one can observe a distinctive curved shape, with the cashew nut nestled snugly against the cashew apple. This unique growth pattern sets the cashew apart from other nuts, as it is the only nut that develops outside of the fruit itself.
The growth process of the cashew nut is both fascinating and intricate. It begins with the development of a small, kidney-shaped structure called the cashew nut kernel. This kernel, surrounded by a double-layered shell, is encased within the cashew apple. As the cashew apple matures and ripens, it swells in size, providing protection and nourishment to the developing cashew nut kernel.
When the cashew apple reaches maturity, it is harvested from the tree. The outer skin of the cashew apple is usually discarded, as its flesh is delicate and highly perishable. What remains is the cashew nut, still enclosed within its protective shell. Extracting the cashew nut from its shell is a meticulous process that involves roasting or steaming to soften the shell, followed by careful shelling to reveal the cream-colored cashew kernel.
The culinary versatility of the cashew nut is truly remarkable. It is a staple ingredient in many cuisines, particularly in Asian, Indian, and Mediterranean dishes. Cashews are enjoyed in a variety of forms, including roasted and salted, as well as in their raw and unsalted state. They are also commonly used in cooking and baking, lending a creamy and buttery flavor to both savory and sweet recipes. Additionally, cashews are a popular choice for making dairy alternatives, such as cashew milk and cashew-based cheeses and creams.
Beyond their culinary appeal, cashews boast an impressive nutritional profile. They are a rich source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to heart health. Cashews are also packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and copper. Furthermore, they provide a good amount of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, making them a satisfying and nutritious snack option.
the cashew is a remarkable nut that defies convention by growing from a fruit on a tree. Its unique growth pattern, with the cashew nut attached to the bottom of the cashew apple, sets it apart from other nuts. The culinary versatility and nutritional benefits of cashews make them a beloved ingredient in various cuisines and a popular choice for both snacking and cooking. So, the next time you enjoy the creamy goodness of a cashew, remember its fascinating origin as a fruit-nut hybrid and savor the delightful flavors and benefits it brings to your palate.