Reviewed by Dietitian Kelli McGrane, M.S., RDGetty Images. EatingWell design.
Key Points:
– The chefs we spoke with prefer to purchase cashews from Costco.
– Costco cashews offer great value.
– Cashews are versatile and can be used in salads, stir-fries, and vegan recipes to add creaminess.
Initially, I was uncertain about the benefits of our Costco membership when my husband and I signed up in 2022. As a household of only two, I struggled to see the value in bulk purchases like large quantities of yogurts or a year’s worth of frozen taquitos. However, a visit to the pantry section changed my perspective. Not only were the prices of essential pantry items unbeatable, but the quality was exceptional, setting Costco apart. It turns out, many chefs share this sentiment. Numerous chefs I’ve spoken with are avid Costco fans for the same reasons. While they appreciate various Costco offerings, one item that several chefs swear by is the Kirkland Signature Organic Whole Cashews, available in a 2.5-pound bag for $17.39.
Why Choose Cashews?
Jason Wrobel, a chef and author of Eaternity, who discovered Costco’s cashews during his recipe development for a cooking show, uses them as a dairy alternative in his vegan dishes. The larger packaging and competitive pricing at Costco make them a must-have ingredient for him. Wrobel emphasizes the importance of quality, stating, “You have to be cautious with high-fat nuts like cashews; you may come across rancid nuts, but I appreciate the consistent quality I find at Costco.” Similarly, Ilson Goncalves, an executive chef and owner of Samba Montclair, relies on Costco’s cashews for their organic selection and affordability. He incorporates these cashews into two vegan dishes at his restaurant.
In addition to quality and cost-effectiveness, the chefs highlight the exceptional taste of Costco’s cashews. Erin Clarke, a cookbook author, praises their freshness and value, noting that they taste superior to other brands.
Best Uses of Cashews:
Cashews are high in fat and protein, making them a versatile dairy substitute in vegan recipes. Chefs like Wrobel and Goncalves often reach for cashews when preparing dairy-free dishes. Wrobel notes their versatility, using them in ice cream bases and salad dressings, such as dairy-free ranch. Goncalves mentions creating a cashew cream sauce for Samba’s vegan mushroom stroganoff and blueberry cheesecake.
Cashews can enhance both sweet and savory dishes like salads and stir-fries, adding a significant protein boost. Clarke keeps them on hand for snacking and entertaining, incorporating them into cheese boards to rave reviews.
Overall, Costco’s cashews are favored by chefs for their quality, affordability, and delicious taste, making them a versatile ingredient for various dishes.
“I keep a bowl of cashews on the counter, or I find myself reaching into the bag every time I pass through the kitchen,” she explains. Chefs are also recommending checking out Costco’s produce aisle for great deals on berries, spinach, and baby romaine lettuce. While the bulk sizes might be large for small families or kitchens, the prices are much better than traditional grocery stores. For example, Costco offers organic blueberries at just over $8 for 18 ounces, while a pint can cost over $7 at other stores. Another favorite among chefs is the Kirkland Signature Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano, which can be stored in the fridge for up to two months after opening. The rinds can even be used to add depth to soups. Overall, chefs love Costco for its high-quality products at great prices. If they had to choose just one item, many would opt for a bag of organic cashews, which are versatile for snacking, salads, and as a dairy substitute in vegan dishes. The bulk bags at Costco make it convenient to whip up cashew cream without spending too much.
