Pickled cashews & more at this women-run factory in Goa
From pickled to smoked cashews and more, this cashew factory with mostly women employees offers flavourful treats and a heartwarming story.
In a tiny hamlet called Corgao, nestled within the lush green landscapes of north Goa, Trimurti Cashews has been producing some of Goa’s most flavourful cashews since 1985. This cashew factory not only offers a delectable assortment of flavoured cashews but also embodies a heartwarming tale of tradition, empowerment and dedication.
At the heart of this story stands 22-year-old Urvi Sanjay Ghotge, a young and enterprising soul who is nurturing her father’s legacy alongside her mother.
Three generations ago, Urvi’s grandfather embarked on this journey, and now, the mantle has seamlessly passed to this determined descendant.
Guarding tradition, embracing change
Every day at the factory, skilled hands pick out cashews with precision. Urvi points out that this meticulous process is best suited for the deft touch of women. Among those involved in the job is Kavita, who has been a part of the factory for nearly 25 years.
“I began working here before Urvi was born. My job has helped me raise my children,” said Kavita.
Today, she stands tall as a manager, embodying the journey from labourer to leader.
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Kavita’s story echoes through the factory’s halls, resonating with the stories of about ten other women from the village, who have found not only financial stability but also a sense of purpose within its walls.
Flavours that dance on the tongue
Beyond its heartwarming tales lies the allure of cashews bursting with flavours. There are several varieties to choose from, offering a palette of flavours, each tasting better than the last. Among them, “Pickled cashews” stand uniquely crafted by the factory. Urvi proudly shares that their cashews possess an exceptional quality – they remain crunchy throughout their shelf life. This magic is attributed to a secret process, guarded with care like a precious heirloom.
In addition to their flagship pickled cashew variety, Trimurti Cashews offers an array of delicious flavours, including smoked, spicy masala, classic salted, cream & onion, cheese, and aromatic tandoori roasted options.
Corgao village, which lies in Pernem taluk, has its own distinct character. The dialect spoken here carries whispers of Malvani influence from Maharashtra, setting it apart from the rest of Goa, where Konkani is widely spoken.
“The winds of change have swept through, nudging the village towards progress,” said Urvi.
The factory’s resilience continues to shine through even in the face of challenges like climate change. A sweltering year tested their mettle, causing illnesses and slowing production. However, the women employees orchestrated shifts and battled the odds, ensuring that profits did not wane.
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Cashews, like life, come in various sizes and shades. The factory offers a spectrum of choices and price ranges. Priced from Rs 750 per kg to the premium Rs 1,300 per kg, the array caters to diverse palates and preferences.
The lead image at the top shows freshly peeled cashews at Trimurti (Photo by Teesta Rajan)
Teesta Rajan is the Associate Director of Village Vibe at Village Square. She is passionate about food, travel and culture.
