Cashews are a beloved ingredient in Indian vegetarian cuisine, lending a rich, creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor to a wide variety of dishes. From decadent gravies to crunchy snacks and sweets, cashews are incredibly versatile and nutritious.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just beginning your culinary journey, incorporating cashews into your meals can elevate the taste and add a touch of indulgence without compromising on health. Indian recipes featuring cashews often highlight the balance of spices, textures, and vibrant flavors that define the region’s cuisine.
In this blog post, we’ll explore several delicious Indian vegetarian cashew recipes that you can easily prepare at home. These recipes are perfect for festive occasions or everyday meals, offering a delightful blend of tradition and innovation.
Let’s dive into these mouthwatering cashew creations and discover why they deserve a spot on your dining table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cashew-based Indian vegetarian recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy both taste and nutrition. Cashews provide a creamy texture to gravies and curries without the need for cream, which makes them a healthier alternative.
They are rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron.
Additionally, cashews add a natural sweetness and richness that complements the bold spices commonly used in Indian cooking. Whether you want a simple snack like masala roasted cashews or a lavish curry such as Kaju Curry (cashew nut curry), these recipes are bound to impress your family and guests.
Also, cashew recipes are versatile and adaptable for various dietary preferences. They are naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly if prepared without dairy.
If you’re looking to experiment with hearty vegetarian meals, cashew dishes are an excellent choice!
Ingredients
- Raw cashew nuts – 1 cup (for most recipes)
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Tomatoes – 2 medium, pureed or chopped
- Green chilies – 1-2, finely chopped
- Ginger-garlic paste – 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
- Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
- Coriander powder – 1 tablespoon
- Garam masala – ½ teaspoon
- Fresh cream or cashew paste – 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Salt – to taste
- Oil or ghee – 2 tablespoons
- Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish
- Water – as needed for gravy or roasting
- Whole spices (cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon stick) – optional, for tempering
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed frying pan or skillet
- Blender or food processor (for cashew paste and tomato puree)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife and chopping board
- Serving bowls or plates
Instructions
- Prepare the cashew paste: Soak ½ cup of raw cashews in warm water for 15-20 minutes. Drain and blend them into a smooth paste using a little water. This paste will add creaminess to your curry.
- Heat oil or ghee: In a frying pan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee. If using whole spices, add ½ teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 bay leaf, 2 cloves, and a small cinnamon stick. Sauté until aromatic.
- Sauté onions and aromatics: Add the finely chopped onions and cook until golden brown. Stir in 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste and 1-2 chopped green chilies. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add spices and tomato puree: Mix in ½ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1 tablespoon coriander powder, and salt to taste. Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala base, about 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate cashew paste: Stir in the smooth cashew paste and mix well to avoid lumps. Add 1 cup of water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil to form a thick gravy.
- Simmer and finish: Reduce the heat and simmer the curry for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add ½ teaspoon garam masala and 2 tablespoons fresh cream or more cashew paste if desired for extra richness.
- Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.
Tips & Variations
Roasting the cashews lightly before soaking enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch to dishes like cashew masala or snack mixes.
For a vegan version of creamy curries, substitute fresh cream with coconut cream or additional cashew paste.
- Kaju Curry Variation: Add sautéed paneer or mixed vegetables to the gravy for a hearty main dish.
- Cashew Pulao: Toss roasted cashews into fragrant basmati rice cooked with whole spices for a festive meal.
- Masala Roasted Cashews: Toss roasted cashews with chaat masala, chili powder, and salt for a quick snack.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 20 g (mostly healthy fats) |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Magnesium | 80 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Cashew-based Indian vegetarian dishes pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve your creamy kashew curry with steamed basmati rice or fragrant jeera rice for a classic combination.
For bread lovers, warm rotis, parathas, or buttery naan complement the rich gravy beautifully.
Consider adding a cooling cucumber raita or a tangy salad to balance the richness of the cashew dishes. You can also serve roasted or spiced cashews as an appetizer or snack before the main meal to whet your appetite.
For more inspiration on vegetarian dishes, explore our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or try pairing your meal with some refreshing drinks like the Huckleberry Margarita Recipe.
Popular Indian Vegetarian Cashew Recipes to Try
Kaju Masala (Cashew Nut Curry)
This rich and creamy curry is made by simmering cashew paste in a spiced tomato gravy. It’s an excellent dish to serve for special occasions and pairs well with flatbreads or rice.
Cashew Rice Pilaf
Fluffy basmati rice cooked with whole spices and mixed with roasted cashews and raisins makes for a festive and fragrant dish that’s perfect for lunchboxes and potlucks alike.
Masala Roasted Cashews
A crunchy and flavorful snack prepared by tossing roasted cashews with a blend of Indian spices. This snack is perfect for tea time or as an appetizer at parties.
Kaju Katli (Cashew Nut Fudge)
A beloved Indian sweet made from ground cashews and sugar, shaped into diamond slices. It’s a popular treat during festivals like Diwali.
Cashew and Vegetable Korma
This mildly spiced, creamy korma combines cashew paste with mixed vegetables for a wholesome, comforting meal.
For more Indian-inspired vegetarian recipes, check out our Muthiya Kadhi Recipe for a tangy yogurt-based curry or our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for light starters that everyone can enjoy.
Conclusion
Indian vegetarian cashew recipes offer a delightful mix of creamy textures, rich flavors, and nourishing ingredients that can enhance any meal. Cashews not only add a luxurious touch to curries and snacks but also provide essential nutrients, making them a smart choice for healthy eating.
Whether you’re preparing a festive feast or a simple family dinner, these cashew recipes are sure to impress and satisfy.
Experiment with different recipes and cooking techniques to find your favorite way to enjoy cashews. From Kaju Masala to crunchy masala cashews, the possibilities are endless.
Don’t forget to explore other exciting dishes on our site to complement your cashew creations and elevate your cooking experience.
📖 Recipe Card: Indian Vegetarian Cashew Curry
Description: A rich and creamy Indian curry made with cashews, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Perfect as a main dish served with rice or naan.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Soak cashews in warm water for 15 minutes, then drain.
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in tomato puree and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and salt; mix well.
- Add soaked cashews and water, simmer for 15 minutes until cashews are tender.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 25 g | Carbs: 20 g
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