Autumn finds its signature in chestnuts, and those lucky enough to be near a chestnut grove can experience the full ritual: gathering, roasting, and savoring.
In Asturias, a glass of sweet cider often accompanies the chestnuts, though they pair beautifully with a good wine or even with hot chocolate. They can also work as a popcorn substitute for a cozy home theater night, or they can become a rich cocoa cream for a healthier treat. The possibilities truly are wide open.
Regardless of the chosen method, the first step is selecting the chestnuts carefully. The best are large, plump, and with glossy skins. Consistency in size helps ensure even cooking, so some will not be underdone while others are overcooked.
baked
To bake chestnuts in the oven, it is essential to evaluate their flavor and lightly salt them. A tiny pinch of salt helps tighten the skins so heat can penetrate. It’s wise to prepare a generous batch, since chestnuts taste best when saved for later and enjoyed another time.
Set the oven to 200 degrees, then lower the heat slightly. The exact time varies with the oven and the chestnuts, but typically about ten minutes on each side suffices.
Two other options
Not the most common approach, but useful for crafting sauces, vegetable creams, or desserts, chestnuts can be used in other recipes. The trade-off is that peeling raw chestnuts can be more labor-intensive.
After peeling, they should be boiled for about 45 minutes. They can also be prepared more quickly in a pressure cooker. If the goal is to puree later, a few extra minutes helps when mashing with a fork.
The microwave method is quite similar to the oven. Cooking times depend on microwave power: at 1000 watts, two minutes is usually enough; at 800 watts, two and a half minutes may be needed.
Chestnuts offer a flexible ingredient path for many dishes, from creamy sauces to dessert bases, and their savory sweetness can elevate a simple snack into something comforting and satisfying. Overall, the method chosen should reflect the cook’s desired texture and timing, while keeping the natural nutty flavor intact.