Cashews Tonic: A New Experiment in Tradition
Last year, our successful attempt at making Gooseberry Tonic (known as Arishtam in Ayurveda) sparked a curiosity to explore the possibilities with other fruits. Arishtam is a time-honored Ayurvedic preparation, known for its health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting immunity, and enhancing overall vitality. With such positive results from our first trial, we felt inspired to try something new.
Today, we gathered fresh cashews from a friend's farm, and with the guidance of another friend’s recipe, we set out to create something special. The ingredients are simple yet potent: sugarcane jaggery and a blend of traditional spices that have been passed down through generations. The process is as much about patience as it is about precision. The mixture is left to ferment, and what we end up with will either be a flavorful wine for our friends or a nourishing tonic for the children in our community.
The Benefits as we learnt
Cashews themselves are a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in healthy fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron. When combined with sugarcane jaggery—a natural sweetener loaded with antioxidants and minerals—the tonic can offer a variety of health benefits:
Rich in Nutrients: The combination of cashews and jaggery ensures that the tonic is packed with essential nutrients that support overall health. It’s a natural way to boost energy levels and keep the immune system strong.
Digestive Aid: Just like Gooseberry Tonic, the Cashews Tonic is expected to aid digestion. The fermentation process may produce beneficial probiotics, which are known to promote gut health.
Natural Sweetness: Sugarcane jaggery is not only a healthier alternative to refined sugar but also helps in balancing the flavors of the tonic. It adds a natural sweetness while providing essential minerals like iron, which can help prevent anemia.
Antioxidant-Rich: The spices added to the tonic are rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals in the body. This can reduce oxidative stress and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Versatility: Whether it turns out to be a wine or a tonic, the end product will be a versatile addition to our kitchen. The wine can be enjoyed with friends on a special occasion, while the tonic can be a daily health supplement for the children.
As we wait for the final result, there’s a sense of excitement and anticipation. Regardless of the outcome, this experiment is a celebration of tradition, creativity, and community. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best things in life come from blending old wisdom with new ideas.
Stay tuned to find out whether our cashews journey ends in a sweet wine or a nourishing tonic. Either way, we are thrilled to share the fruits of our labor with those around us.
