Cashew

Districts / Region

Cashew cultivation is done in most of the South Konkan region. Vengurla tehsil of Sindhudurg District is known for Cashew production.

Ingredients and Short Recipes

Cashew fruit and nuts are sold separately and have unique usages. Cashew fruit is usually used for making various preparations like juices, pickles and also used for making liquor known as Feni. Cashew nuts are used in different ways and have high nutritional value. 
Cashew is looked at as a commercial crop, and systematic and scientific study has been taken up for the growth of Cashew cultivation. The Regional fruit station in Vengurla was established in the year 1957, which developed various varieties of cashews. The GI mark indicates the only registered farmers from that region have the right to plant and cultivate the cashews in this region.
Maharashtra is the leading Cashew producer in India. The climate of the Sindhudurg district is ideal for growing cashew nuts.

History

The Cashew Trees were first introduced by the Portuguese in the 16th-17th century. The Portuguese planted those trees first in Goa alongside the coastline to avoid soil erosion. Gradually the plantation spread in most of the parts of South Konkan and coastal Karnataka.

Cultural Significance

Cashew is used in some of the religious rituals and festivals in Goa and surrounding regions. It has become an integrated part of cuisine and various recipes.