Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Fried Rice vs Cashews: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Cashews is generally healthier

Cashews comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (18g vs 4.3g), more fiber (3.3g vs 0.8g), less sodium (10mg vs 390mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Fried Rice

163 kcal

More Protein

Cashews

18g

More Fiber

Cashews

3.3g

Less Sugar

Fried Rice

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Fried Rice
163
Cashews
553
Proteinper 100g
Fried Rice
4.3g
Cashews
18g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Fried Rice
25g
Cashews
30g
Fatper 100g
Fried Rice
5.2g
Cashews
44g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFried RiceCashewsDifference
Calories163kcal553kcal-390.0kcal
Protein4.3g18g-13.7g
Carbohydrates25g30g-5.0g
Fat5.2g44g-38.8g
Fiber0.8g3.3g-2.5g
Sugar0.6g5.9g-5.3g
Sodium390mg10mg+380.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Fried Rice

Per 100g:163 calories
Per cup (150g):245 calories
Per serving (85g):139 calories

Cashews

Per 100g:553 calories
Per cup (150g):830 calories
Per serving (85g):470 calories

Diet Compatibility

Fried Rice

No specific diet tags

Cashews

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Fried Rice

  • Lower in calories (163 vs 553)
  • Lower in carbs (25g vs 30g)
  • Less sugar (0.6g vs 5.9g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Fried Rice nutrition →

When to Choose Cashews

  • Higher in protein (18g vs 4.3g)
  • More fiber (3.3g vs 0.8g)
  • Lower sodium (10mg vs 390mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Cashews nutrition →

Fried Rice vs Cashews: Nutritional Analysis

Cashews is more calorie-dense at 553 calories per 100g compared to 163 for Fried Rice, a difference of 390 calories. On the protein front, Cashews delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 4.3g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Fried Rice and Cashews tell different nutritional stories. Fried Rice provides 25g of carbohydrates, 5.2g of fat, and 0.8g of fiber per 100g, while Cashews contains 30g carbs, 44g fat, and 3.3g fiber. The higher fiber content in Cashews supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Fried Rice contains 0.6g while Cashews has 5.9g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Fried Rice is the lower-calorie choice at 163 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cashews provides more protein (18g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Cashews offers more fiber (3.3g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Fried Rice or Cashews?

Cashews has more calories with 553 kcal per 100g, compared to Fried Rice with 163 kcal. That's a difference of 390 calories per 100g serving.

Is Fried Rice healthier than Cashews?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Cashews is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Cashews has 553 calories, 18g protein, and 3.3g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Fried Rice and Cashews?

Cashews has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Fried Rice with 4.3g. Cashews provides 13.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Fried Rice or Cashews?

For weight loss, Fried Rice is the better choice with only 163 calories per 100g compared to 553 calories in Cashews. Cashews also offers 3.3g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Fried Rice or Cashews have fewer carbs?

Fried Rice has fewer carbs with 25g per 100g, compared to Cashews with 30g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Fried Rice is the better option with 5.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.