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Learn the 3 easy methods for soaking cashews: two quick soak methods (microwave and stovetop) and the overnight method.
Do you have a recipe that calls for soaked cashews, but you aren't sure how to do that? Or maybe you're in a time crunch and need to know how to achieve perfectly soft cashews fast. This guide has a method that will work for you!
Cashews are often used in vegan and dairy-free recipes as a dairy substitute. To recipes, they offer creaminess, lusciousness, and viscosity. And unlike many nuts or seeds, cashews don't have an overpowering flavor. Once soaked, they become easy to blend up into a smooth sauce or "cheese".
Plus, cashews have wonderful nutritional benefits!
Best Cashews to Use
Most recipes that call for soaking cashews are calling for raw cashews as opposed to roasted cashews.
Raw cashews are more neutral in flavor and will have a creamier result when blended.
However, if all you have are roasted cashews, you can still use them in many savory dishes, like cashew alfredo sauce. The roasted flavor does come through, so keep that in mind when making this substitution.
I do not recommend using roasted cashews in desserts, like vegan cheesecake.
Quick Soak Methods
If you want to know how to quick-soak cashews, I have 2 methods for you. Each takes about the same amount of time, but one method uses the stove and the other uses the microwave.
Microwave
Using the microwave to soak cashews fast is my go-to method.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the cashews and enough water to cover them by about a half-inch.
- Microwave for 2 minutes.
- Let cashews sit in the hot water for about 20 minutes.
- Drain and use as the recipe instructs.
Properly soaked cashews will appear duller in color and are easy to break apart with your fingers.
Stovetop
The stove method is perfect for those who don't have a microwave or prefer to not use one.
- Add cashews to a pot. Add enough water to cover them by a half-inch.
- On medium heat, bring to a simmer.
- Remove from the heat, cover with a lid, and let soak for 20 minutes.
- Drain.
Overnight Soak Method
If you've got the time and are thinking ahead, soaking cashews overnight is a great option.
- To a container, add the cashews and enough water to cover them by a half-inch. Cover.
- Let sit in the fridge overnight (or for at least 4 hours.)
- Drain.
Note: Oversoaking cashews can lead to a bitter taste and off-putting texture. I don't recommend soaking for more than 24 hours.
Recipe
How To Soak Cashews
Ingredients
- raw cashews
- water
Instructions
Quick Microwave Method
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the cashews and enough water to cover them by about a half-inch.
- Microwave for 2 minutes. Let cashews sit in the hot water for about 20 minutes. Drain.
Quick Stovetop Method
- Add cashews to a pot. Add enough water to cover them by a half-inch.
- On medium heat, bring to a simmer.
- Remove from the heat as soon as it comes to a simmer, cover with a lid, and let soak for 20 minutes. Drain.
Overnight Method
- To a container, add the cashews and enough water to cover them by a half-inch. Cover.
- Let sit in the fridge overnight. Drain.
Notes
Nutrition
Recipes that Use Soaked Raw Cashews:
Tara says
I boiled some water and threw in a cup of cashews then forgot about them today. Can I move it to the fridge or is there a way to store soaked cashews?
Cheryl Stinson says
Would you, or can you, soak the roasted unsalted cashews if not using raw? Or use them as is and and water as needed?
Karissa says
I still soak roasted cashews.
BArbara thornton says
What if cashews are eaten in a shake after they have soaked in the fridge for a couple of weeks ?
Karissa says
I find that soaked cashews spoil quickly - I personally wouldn't eat them after a couple weeks.