Cashews of Goa.

 Goa's famous dry fruits

The significance of the cashew to the Goan economy is equivalent to that of the coconut palm. It is the most sought after commercial crop and is widely grown especially for its nuts and juice whether natural or fermented to produce feni.

Goa with a production of 24,396 tonnes of raw cashew nuts from an area of 56735 hectares stands in sixth position both in area and production in India during 2016-17. The productivity of cashew trees in the state is 430 kg / ha which is less than the national average of 748 kg/ ha.

It is also national fruit of Goa.Goa's production is more than what processing capacity is installed in the State. Actual Goan cashew is more expensive and you get a premium only when you sell it in Goa. Outside Goa people are not ready to pay a premium for Goan cashew nuts.

Feni is a traditional liquor distilled from the fermented juice of cashew apples.It is safe to drink as it is free from organic or artificial flavors. The name "feni" is derived from the Sanskrit word phena which actually means froth. It is due to the fact that bubbles form a light froth when the liquor is shaken in a bottle or poured in a glass. Feni is a part of Goa food tradition from the last 400 years. 

Feni warms up the body and cleanses the respiratory system more effectively than cough syrups.

Feni can be served neat or over ice, and can be mixed in classic cocktails or with juices. It can be served with a slice of lime, and sometimes with sugar or sugar syrup, which are popular additions. Cazulo. Cazulo are the makers of some of Goa's finest feni.

Cashews are low in sugar and rich in fiber, heart-healthy fats, and plant protein. They're also a good source of copper, magnesium, and manganese — nutrients important for energy production, brain health, immunity, and bone health.

The significance of the cashew to the Goan economy is equivalent to that of the coconut palm. It is the most sought after commercial crop and is widely grown especially for its nuts and juice whether natural or fermented to produce feni.

It is a major contributor to the foreign market specially because of its salted and roasted nuts which are enjoyed all over the world. Cashew nuts from Goa are exported in millions abroad and in a large way, boost foreign trade.

So whenever you visit Goa do not forget to fetch some Cashews for your loved ones.

Note: Image courtesy from Google.