Embrace the cozy charm of winter with this timeless recipe for "Chestnuts Roasted on an Open Fire." A quintessential holiday favorite, this simple yet satisfying dish fills your home with the irresistible aroma of woodsmoke and toasted nuts. Fresh chestnuts, carefully scored and optionally soaked for extra tenderness, are roasted directly over glowing embers in a fire-safe pan, creating a caramelized outer shell and a buttery, nutty interior. The process is as much about the ritual as it is about the result—perfect for gathering around the hearth with loved ones. Serve these warm, tender chestnuts straight from the fire for the ultimate seasonal snack or a rustic, festive touch to your holiday celebrations.
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1. Begin by selecting fresh chestnuts. Look for ones with shiny, smooth shells that feel heavy for their size and have no cracks or signs of mold.
2. Rinse the chestnuts under cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Using a sharp paring knife, carefully score an 'X' on the flat side of each chestnut. This will allow steam to escape during roasting and make peeling easier later.
4. (Optional) Soak the chestnuts in water for about 30 minutes to help keep them moist and tender while roasting. Drain and pat dry before proceeding.
5. Prepare your open fire or wood-burning fireplace. Once the flames have subsided and you have glowing embers, you are ready to roast.
6. Place a chestnut roasting pan, cast iron skillet, or any fire-safe perforated pan over the embers. Spread the chestnuts in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
7. Roast the chestnuts over the embers, shaking the pan every 2-3 minutes to prevent burning and ensure an even roast.
8. Continue roasting for 15-20 minutes, or until the shells are charred and pulling away from the scored 'X,' and the chestnuts feel soft inside when pressed gently.
9. Remove the chestnuts from the fire and wrap them in a clean kitchen towel. Allow them to sit for about 5 minutes—this will make peeling easier.
10. Once cooled slightly, peel away the shells and inner skin from each chestnut. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving size | (1007.2g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 655 |
Total Fat 5.5g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 1g | 0% |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 135mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 140g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 15g | 0% |
Total Sugars 30g | |
Protein 10g | 0% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 90mg | 0% |
Iron 4.5mg | 0% |
Potassium 3575mg | 0% |
Source of Calories