Chestnuts Nut

Description/Taste

Fresh Chestnuts grow in pairs within round spiky green flowers, also known as catkins. The hard, thin-shelled nuts are a shiny brown and measure between 3 and 4 centimeters in diameter. Each nut has one flattened side, where it was pressed against the second seed as it developed. The flesh is a creamy white with a firm, crisp texture. They have a starchy, meaty texture when boiled or roasted and have a mild and slightly sweet flavor.

Seasons/Availability

Dried Chestnuts are available in frozen form year-round. Fresh chestnuts are typically available from late fall through winter.

Current Facts

Fresh Chestnuts are the seeds of the Castanea sativa, or Chestnut tree. There are four main species of Chestnut, the one most often found in stores in the United States is the European variety. The nuts have been immortalized in holiday songs and are a popular roasted snack commonly consumed during the winter holiday months.

Nutritional Value

Fresh Chestnuts are an excellent source of vitamins C and calcium and are high in carbohydrates. They are a good source of B-complex vitamins, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, and potassium.

Applications

Fresh Chestnuts are used in both sweet and savory applications. They are roasted on the stove or in the oven and served on their own or prepared like a vegetable. Before cooking, the shells are scored to make them easier to peel. Once cooked they can be chopped for use in stuffing, risottos, and pasta dishes. They can be pureed and used as a substitute for peanut butter, mashed like potatoes or sautéed with celery, carrots and onions for soup. Prepared Fresh Chestnuts are dehydrated and ground into flour for use as a gluten free substitute. Fresh Chestnuts will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. They can be frozen for longer storage.