Nuts

Nuts

Nuts are simple dry fruits composed of a hard shell and an edible kernel. They are packed with a good source of healthy fats, fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Some of the important nuts are discussed below.

Cashew nut

Botanical name : Anacardium occidentale

Family: Anacardiaceae

Origin and Area of cultivation

Cashew has originated in Brazil and made its way to India in the 16th century through Portuguese sailors. Cashew is grown in Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Orissa.

Uses

Cashews are commonly used for garnishing sweets or curries, or ground into a paste that forms a base of sauces for curries or some sweets. Roasted and raw kernels are used as snacks.

Almond

Botanical name : Prunus dulcis

Family: Rosaceae

Origin and Area of cultivation

Almond is a tree native to Mediterranean regions of the Middle East. Almond is cultivated in Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Uses

Almonds are often eaten raw or roasted and are available as whole, sliced (flaked), and as flour. Almond oil is made into almond butter or almond milk, which are used in sweet and savoury dishes. Almond helps in promoting HDL (High Density Lipids)