A cashew is neither a true nut nor a bean; botanically, it is classified as a drupe seed.
The Botanical Truth: Cashews Are Drupe Seeds
While often found in the "nut" aisle of grocery stores, cashews hold a distinct botanical identity. They are not considered true nuts in the scientific sense. True nuts are typically characterized by a single seed encased in a hard, dry shell that does not open to release the seed.
Instead, a cashew is the seed of a drupe, which is a type of fleshy fruit with a hard outer covering surrounding the seed. The cashew "nut" that we consume is actually the kidney-shaped seed that grows from the bottom of a unique structure known as the cashew apple. This cashew apple is a vibrant "false fruit," meaning it develops from a part of the flower other than the ovary, and it typically resembles a small bell pepper, ranging in color from yellow to red.
Distinguishing Cashews from Beans
Cashews are also distinctly different from beans. Beans belong to the legume family (Fabaceae), which includes plants like peas, lentils, and chickpeas. Legumes are characterized by their seeds growing in pods. Since cashews grow attached to a cashew apple and not in pods, they are not legumes and therefore are not botanically classified as beans.
Culinary vs. Botanical Identity
The common perception of a cashew as a "nut" stems from its culinary use and nutritional profile, which are similar to those of tree nuts. However, its botanical classification reveals a more complex reality.
Here's a breakdown of the cashew's classification:
| Characteristic | Cashew Classification | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical Identity | Drupe Seed | The seed of a fleshy fruit (a drupe) rather than a true nut or legume. |
| Culinary Use | Tree Nut | Frequently used and marketed like other tree nuts due to texture and taste. |
| Growth Form | Attached to a "false fruit" (cashew apple) | Grows externally at the base of the fleshy cashew apple. |
| Botanical Family | Anacardiaceae | The sumac family, which also includes mangoes and pistachios. |
Key Characteristics of Cashews
- Unique Growth: The edible cashew "nut" is the seed that hangs beneath the fleshy cashew apple.
- Distinct Flavor: Known for their buttery texture and delicate, sweet flavor, making them a popular ingredient in snacks, desserts, and various cuisines worldwide.
- Versatile Use: Despite their botanical classification, cashews are widely used in culinary applications, from being roasted and salted as snacks to being ground into butter or milk alternatives.
