First, a quick truth bomb. Raw cashews aren't really "raw" in the strict sense. They’re steamed to remove a toxic shell. So they’re already kinda cooked? But, that process leaves them bland. Roasting is the finishing move. It deepens the flavor.
You also get that incredible texture. Think about it. A raw cashew has zero crunch. It’s a soft, weird little kidney. A roasted cashew? A satisfying, audible CRACK when you bite it. You want that crack. Your jaw demands it. Don’t deny your jaw.
