Soaking cashew is an essential step to creating creamy cashew-based recipes. In this blog we have listed the top three methods for soaking cashews, both quick and slow, so you may pick the one that suits you best!
Raw cashews are a vegan and dairy-free staple! After being soaked, they can be blended with water to make everything from a variety of sauces, dressings, mayo, and even sweet frostings!
Anytime you need a substitute for dairy in a recipe, cashews can step in and create an incredibly creamy texture.
Soaking Cashews in Three Easy Methods:
1. Overnight Soak: The traditional method is to soak overnight. It takes the most time. 2. Hot water soak: Uses hot water to cut down on soak time. 3. Boiling: Boil the cashews for 15 minutes and you're good to go!
When Will The Cashews Be Completely Soaked?
It's helpful to know when the cashews have finished soaking before we get into the ways. Each method specifies the amount of time it will take to finish the cashews, but the easiest option is to taste one. When Will The Cashews Be Completely Soaked?
It's helpful to know when the cashews have finished soaking before we get into the ways. Each method provides a range of times that the cashews will be soaked fully, but the easiest way is to taste one. Throughout, the cashew should be plump and mushy. Continue to soak if the center is still crunchy.
How To Soak Cashews Overnight:
The traditional method for soaking cashews is an overnight soak. This method takes the most time, however, the cashews will remain raw and retain their full nutritional value.
If you have the extra time and want to keep your dressings and sauces raw, this method is for you. Add the cashews to a bowl and fill with enough water to cover the nuts. The cashews will absorb some of the water as they soak, so more is better. Mostly 2-3 cups of water are enough for every cup of cashews. Cover and place in the fridge to soak for 6-8 hours. if you are planning ahead for dinner, the cashews can also be soaked for 5-8 hours during the day.
Benefits:
The most consistent results.
Easiest! Place them in the fridge and forget about it overnight.
Drawbacks:
Takes the longest.
How To Quick Soak Cashews:
If you are short on time, try a hot water soak. It’s easy and only takes about 30 minutes of soak time.
Place your cashews in a large bowl and bring water to a boil in a pot or tea kettle. Fill the cashews halfway with hot water. Let soak for 30-40 minutes. Place a plate over the top of the dish to trap the heat and speed things up even more.
Benefits:
A quicker method.
Fairly hands off
Drawbacks:
Cashews may not soak as evenly.
The Quickest Way To Soak Cashews:
Boiling the cashews is hands down the quickest method soaking method. It only takes about 15 minutes for the cashews to soften in boiling water. This is the best way to soak cashews if you're in a hurry.
Place the cashews in a medium-sized pot. Fill the pot halfway with water and come to a boil. Turn off the heat after it reaches a rolling boil, cover, and allow the cashews to soak for 15 minutes. Drain and rinse the softened cashews, then add them to the recipe.
Benefits:
Fastest method!
Great for when you forget to soak cashews and you need them now.
Drawbacks:
Cashews may not soak as evenly.
Benefits Of Soaking Cashews?
Soaking cashews not only gives them a wonderful creamy texture for dishes, but it also increases their nutritional value! Soaking nuts (of any type) removes phytic acid, helping our systems to absorb more nutrients and making them easier to digest.
Can You Soak Roasted Cashews?
Roasted cashews can be soaked, but their roasted taste will transfer over to the next dish. For the most neutral flavor, choose raw cashews.
Yes, they can get rancid if you soak them in the same water for too long, which is generally several days. The water will become slimy and stinky. To avoid this, soak only the amount of cashews required for a recipe. If you absorb too much, consider the storage suggestions below.
Storage:
Soaked cashews can be drained (a must!) and kept in the fridge for up to two days. Freeze them for up to 3 months for extended storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.