Pour boiling water over the cashews: Use a tea kettle or boil water on the stove and pour over cashews in a large cup. Let this sit for 5-10 minutes before draining and discarding the water.  Microwave: Add just enough water to cover the cashews in a large bowl or cup. Microwave 2:30 minutes and carefully remove from microwave with oven mitts. Carefully drain and discard the water.  Stove: Bring cashews and water to a boil. Boil together for 2-3 minutes. Drain and discard the water after boiling.  Countertop: Cover the cashews with fresh water and sit on the counter for 8 hours. Drain and discard the water after soaking.