What are the main differences between roasted and steamed cashew nuts?

Roasted Cashew Nuts:

1. Flavour: Roasted cashew nuts have a rich, nutty flavour with a slightly caramelized taste due to the roasting process. The roasting process enhances the natural flavour of the cashew nuts and adds depth to their taste profile.
2. Texture: Roasted cashew nuts have a crunchy texture on the outside while still maintaining a tender and creamy texture on the inside. The roasting process adds a crispiness to the nuts, making them enjoyable to eat.
3. Appearance: Roasted cashew nuts typically have a golden-brown colour on the outside, resulting from the Maillard reaction during the roasting process. This gives them an attractive appearance and contributes to their appeal as a snack.
4. Shelf Life: Roasted cashew nuts generally have a longer shelf life compared to raw cashews due to the roasting process, which helps to reduce moisture content and inhibit the growth of microorganisms. However, they should still be stored properly to maintain their freshness.

Steamed Cashew Nuts:

1. Flavour: Steamed cashew nuts have a milder and subtler flavour compared to roasted cashews. The steaming process preserves the natural flavour of the nuts without adding any additional roasted or caramelized notes.
2. Texture: Steamed cashew nuts tend to have a softer and more tender texture compared to roasted cashews. The steaming process helps to soften the nuts, making them easier to chew and digest.
3. Appearance: Steamed cashew nuts generally retain their natural colour, which is pale ivory or off-white. The steaming process does not alter the appearance of the nuts significantly, maintaining their original colour and appearance.
4. Nutrient Retention: Steamed cashew nuts may retain more of their nutrients compared to roasted cashews since they are not subjected to high temperatures during the steaming process. However, both roasted and steamed cashews are nutritious and provide essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.

In summary, roasted cashew nuts have a richer flavour, crunchier texture, and golden-brown appearance due to the roasting process, while steamed cashew nuts have a milder flavour, softer texture, and retain their natural colour from the steaming process. Both varieties offer unique taste experiences and can be enjoyed in various culinary applications.