Nuts

Cashew nuts are a popular and nutritious food with a fascinating history. Here's a breakdown of key information:
Origin and History:
 * Native to Brazil:
   * Cashews originate from northeastern Brazil.
   * Indigenous people there used them for food, medicine, and other purposes.
 * Spread by the Portuguese:
   * In the 16th century, Portuguese explorers took cashew trees to India and Africa.
   * This global distribution led to cashews becoming a significant crop in various regions.
 * Global Spread:
   * From India and Africa, cashews spread to Southeast Asia and other parts of the world.
Characteristics and Uses:
 * The Cashew Tree:
   * The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) is a tropical evergreen.
   * It produces both the cashew nut and the cashew apple.
 * The Cashew Nut:
   * The "nut" is actually a seed that grows at the end of the cashew apple.
   * It's known for its distinctive kidney shape and rich, buttery flavor.