5 Delicious Recipes Using Cashews and Almonds

Cashews and almonds are versatile nuts that can elevate a variety of dishes. Their rich flavors and nutritional benefits make them a great addition to both savory and sweet recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, these five recipes will help you make the most of cashews and almonds in your kitchen.

1. Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup cashews
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add chicken strips and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and hoisin sauce, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Toss in cashews and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
• You can also use tofu or shrimp instead of chicken for variety.

2. Almond-Crusted Salmon

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 cup almond meal
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix almond meal, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, combine Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil.
4. Brush the salmon fillets with the mustard mixture, then press them into the almond mixture to coat.
5. Place the coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

Tips:

• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• For a tangy twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

3. Cashew Nut Butter

Ingredients:

• 2 cups raw cashews
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1-2 tbsp coconut oil (if needed)

Instructions:

1. Place cashews in a food processor and process for 4-5 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
2. Continue processing until the cashews turn into a smooth butter. If the mixture is too thick, add coconut oil 1 tbsp at a time until desired consistency is reached.
3. Stir in honey and salt if using.
4. Transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Tips:

• For added flavor, try mixing in cinnamon or vanilla extract.
• Use cashew nut butter as a spread on toast, a dip for fruits, or an ingredient in smoothies.

4. Almond Flour Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix almond flour, coconut flour, and baking powder.
2. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
5. Pour batter onto the skillet, forming pancakes of your desired size. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

Tips:

• Top with fresh berries, yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• For a protein boost, add a scoop of protein powder to the batter.

5. Cashew and Almond Energy Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cashews
• 1 cup almonds
• 1 cup pitted dates
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place cashews, almonds, and dates in a food processor and blend until finely chopped and sticky.
2. Add shredded coconut and chia seeds or cocoa powder if using, and blend until combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips:

• These energy balls make a great snack for a quick energy boost.
• Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Conclusion

Cashews and almonds are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of delicious recipes. From savory stir-fries and baked salmon to nut butters and energy balls, these nuts add flavor, texture, and nutrition to your dishes. Try these recipes and discover how cashews and almonds can enhance your cooking and snacking experience.

At United Food Supply Network, we offer a wide range of high-quality cashews and almonds to help you create these delectable recipes. Explore our selection today and bring the rich flavors of nuts to your kitchen!