Roasted Chestnuts

Name: Roasted Chestnuts
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup raw chestnuts

By The Modern Nonna

on Nov 01, 2022, Updated Aug 22, 2024

5 from 1 vote

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Roasted Chestnuts are a staple in our home. We start baking chestnuts from the moment they hit the grocery store in late October, to the moment they leave the shelves. I can eat chestnuts every single day and they are one of my most favorite and nostalgic memories. In Bulgaria, you don’t even have to purchase chestnuts as the streets are FILLED with chestnut trees. These vivid childhood memories bring me so much joy, so I hope I can introduce you to one of the most nutritious and delicious nuts out there.

Why You’ll Love Roasted Chestnuts
How to Prepare
Nonna’s Tip 🌰
Variations and Substitutions for Roasted Chestnuts
Similar Recipes
Best Served With
Common Questions
Roasted Chestnuts Recipe

Why You’ll Love Roasted Chestnuts

Nothing smells as good 🌰 Roasted Chestnuts in the oven on a cold winter night. The aroma is earthy, nutty and nostalgic. Simple yet satisfying, this classic method for roasting chestnuts brings out the rich and sweet flavor of the nut, making them a perfect after-dinner snack or addition to a number of dishes, such as salads or even your 🦃 turkey stuffing. Chestnuts are also really nutritious and known to relieve digestive issues, improve brain function, boost the immune system, control blood pressure, improve heart health, and so much more. They are incredibly easy to make so be sure to give them a try!

How to Prepare

🔥 Preheat the oven to 350F (177C).

🌰 Take a chestnut cutter and place a chestnut right in the middle to cut. Make sure the chestnut is flat and the pointy part of the chestnut is facing you.

⏲️ Once they are all cut, place them on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes. Ours take 30 minutes but the time will depend on your oven.

🥣 Then take them out of the oven, place them in a bowl that is lined with a lint-free kitchen towel, and cover them.

😋 We usually let the Roasted Chestnuts rest for 5 minutes and then peel them while they are still warm.

Nonna’s Tip 🌰

Cutting the chestnuts before baking allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing them from bursting in the oven. It also makes peeling easier after roasting.

Variations and Substitutions for Roasted Chestnuts

You are more than welcome to 🫧 boil the chestnuts as well but we personally like the taste of baked chestnuts more.
Roasted Chestnuts over an open 🔥 fire are even better!
You can absolutely use a 🔪 knife to cut the chestnuts as we have traditionally. It is much more time-consuming and please be very careful not to cut yourself.

Best Served With

Roasted Chestnuts are sensational as an aperitivo or part of a Charcuterie Board.
Use chopped 🌰 Roasted Chestnuts as an addition to a salad or traditional stuffing.

Common Questions

Why do I need to cut the chestnuts before baking?

Cutting the chestnuts before baking allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing them from bursting in the oven. It also makes peeling easier after roasting.

how do I make sure the roasted chestnuts peel easily?

The chestnut cutter is key, and it will save you lots of time and headaches. The cutter will ensure the chestnuts peel beautifully without the fur and make your life so much easier.

Can I use a knife instead of a chestnut cutter?

Yes, you can use a sharp knife to make an “X” on the flat side of the chestnut. Be careful when cutting, as chestnuts can be slippery.

How do I know when the chestnuts are done?

The Roasted Chestnuts are done when the shells start to curl away from the cuts, and the chestnuts feel tender when pressed. If you’re unsure, you can remove one from the oven, let it cool slightly, and peel it to check the texture.