Taste of fall: Roasted chestnuts make a cozy comeback
This is a truly autumnal delicacy, although it is mainly associated with making figures for kindergarten and school projects. Finding the edible version is not a challenge abroad, but in our country, they are often considered a culinary fancy. It's time to break away from this belief and invite them into your kitchen.
10:37 AM EDT, October 31, 2024
The best chestnuts are found at Pigalle Square. Roasted chestnuts are a delicacy enjoyed by the French, Italians, and Spaniards. It's worth giving them a chance because they taste truly heavenly.
What do chestnuts taste like?
While on vacation in Madeira, I noticed them in many restaurants, so I couldn't miss the opportunity and had to try them. After ordering, a large plate of peeled, roasted chestnuts, along with toothpicks for eating, appeared on the table. They are pierced just like roasted potatoes, and not without reason.
They combine a delicate, sweet note with a nutty aftertaste and the characteristic texture of potatoes. The easiest comparison would be roasted sweet potatoes.
Recipe for chestnuts
Preparing them isn't difficult, but you must remember that they are not suitable for eating raw. Roasted chestnuts make an excellent snack for autumn evenings. You can serve them independently or as a side dish to main courses.
Preparing chestnuts:
- Using a sharp knife, make an incision in the shape of a cross on the convex side of each chestnut. This will allow steam to escape during roasting and prevent the chestnuts from bursting.
- Place the chestnuts in a pot with boiling water and a pinch of salt.
- Boil for about 5 minutes. This will shorten the roasting time and make peeling easier.
- Drain the chestnuts and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast in an oven preheated to 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes until the skin becomes brown and crispy.
- Remove the chestnuts from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then peel off the skin and serve hot.
Eat chestnuts for health
Edible chestnuts are a delicious snack and a valued source of many essential nutrients. They are rich in starch, transforming into sugar during cooking, giving the chestnuts a sweet taste. They also contain B vitamins, vitamin C, and minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These components make chestnuts a healthy choice for those conscious about their diet.
Chestnuts contain a significant amount of fiber, which is beneficial for the digestive system. Additionally, the vitamin C in chestnuts supports the immune system.
