Visit a Cajuína Factory in Teresina

Cajuína is so important to the region that there’s even an event for it. The Cajuína and Regional Drinks Festival of Piauí happens every year in Teresina.

Among the gastronomic treasures of Piauí, there’s a drink that brings together a lot of history and tradition. Cajuína is unique, refreshing, and a true cultural symbol. Its importance is such that the drink was considered Brazilian Cultural Heritage by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (Iphan). You can’t leave Piauí without trying a delicious cold cajuína!

What is Cajuína?

Cajuína is the juice of the cashew fruit. But it’s not just any juice. It goes through a unique production process that preserves not only the distinctive flavor of the cashew but also its nutritional properties. Traditionally, cajuína is made by manually pressing the cashews, followed by a natural decantation process that separates the clear, sweet liquid from the pulp and fiber of the fruit.

When we taste fresh cajuína, we are transported to a world of intense and authentic flavors. Its slightly sweet taste, combined with a subtle acidity, is a celebration of the natural richness of the cashew and the artisanal skill of its producers.

Cajuína is Even in Caetano Veloso’s Music

Caetano Veloso is one of the most important names in Brazilian popular music. He has recorded several classics that are passed down from generation to generation, but one of them is related to the cajuína from Piauí. The name of the song is exactly the name of the drink and was released in 1982 on the album Cinema Transcendental.

The song is a reflection on existence and the meaning of life, where Caetano skillfully uses metaphors and images that evoke the sensitivity and culture of the Northeast, like cajuína. The lyrics were written after the musician lost a great friend born in Piauí, Torquato Neto – founder of Tropicália, an important Brazilian artistic and musical movement, alongside the biggest names in the genre.

Visit to a Factory

Now that you know the importance of cajuína to the state of Piauí, it’s only fair to visit a factory and learn about the entire production process of this drink. It is ideal to visit a factory that still preserves artisanal production stages, so you will experience a true immersion in the local culture.

When you arrive at the cajuína factory, you will immediately be greeted by the sweet aroma that fills the air. Something special is going on! It all starts with the selection of cashews, carefully chosen for their maturity and quality. This step is crucial, as it largely determines the flavor and final quality of the cajuína.

Next, the cashews are washed and prepared for the pressing process, where they are crushed to extract the liquid. After pressing, the juice is filtered and bottled. And here comes the most important part! In glass bottles, the cajuína arrives still transparent in a compartment where it will be cooked in hot water. The heat caramelizes the fruit sugar, and that’s when the drink gains its yellowish color and flavor.

The whole process, from cleaning to cooking, takes about 6 hours. After that, the drink will be ready to be consumed. Grab a bottle chilled and enjoy tasting and refreshing from the heat!

Cajuína and Regional Drinks Festival of Piauí

Yes, cajuína has a huge event just for it. Every year, the city of Teresina hosts the Cajuína and Regional Drinks Festival of Piauí, aiming to value the productive and cultural aspects of cajuína and other typical drinks of the state. It’s a mix of exhibition and commercialization of cajuína, cachaça, liqueur, and craft beer, with lectures, talk shows, and musical performances. If you’re in Teresina, it’s worth visiting and taking home a bottle of cajuína from the local small producer!

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