Yes, adding cashew paste can help reduce the spiciness of a dish to some extent. Cashew paste adds a creamy and nutty flavor that can balance out the heat from spices. Here's how you can use cashew paste to make a dish less spicy:
Prepare the cashew paste: Soak raw cashews in water for a few hours or overnight. Drain the cashews and blend them with a little water until you get a smooth paste. The amount of water can be adjusted depending on the desired consistency.
Adjust the spice level: If your dish is already cooked and spicy, you can gradually add the cashew paste while stirring to distribute it evenly. Start with a small amount and taste the dish to see if the spiciness has reduced to your liking. If needed, you can add more cashew paste until the desired balance is achieved.
Cook and blend: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can cook the cashew paste with the dish. Add the cashew paste to the dish and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can also use a blender or immersion blender to puree the dish, ensuring the cashew paste is well incorporated and the spiciness is evenly distributed.
It's important to note that while cashew paste can help mellow the spiciness, it may not completely eliminate it. The effectiveness of cashew paste in reducing spiciness depends on the intensity of the spices used in the dish. It's always a good idea to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to achieve the desired flavor balance.
Additionally, cashew paste adds richness to the dish, so consider its compatibility with the flavors and textures of the specific recipe you're working with.