Why We Love Chestnuts

Roasting chestnuts over an open fire may seem cliché, but it’s one of the best ways to enjoy this sweet nut.
chestnut

101383743

chestnuts

Photo by: Ruben Caseiro

Ruben Caseiro

Roasting chestnuts over an open fire may seem cliché, but it’s one of the best ways to enjoy this sweet nut.

Chestnuts 101

Chestnuts have a dark outer shell that ranges in color from light brown to blackish. The outer skin is pretty thin and easy to cut with a knife. The nut inside is covered with a bitter inner skin called a pellicle, which should be peeled before eaten.

Fresh chestnuts are available from September through February. Most are imported from around the world from countries like Italy, China, Spain and Korea.

Watch how chestnuts go from field to plate in this FoodNetwork.com video.

The Nutrition Scoop

Chestnuts have fewer calories than other nuts. One ounce (about 3 kernels) of roasted chestnuts contains 69 calories, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram each of fat and fiber. It’s also a good source of vitamin C and manganese.

5 Chestnut Ideas

Chestnuts can be boiled, roasted and even microwaved. Be sure to cut an “X” in the shell for easy peeling (and to prevent the nut from exploding!).

Here are 5 delicious ways to enjoy them:

Storage Tips: Store chestnuts unpeeled in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks or in the freezer in a re-sealable plastic bag or container for up to 6 months.

TELL US: What’s your favorite way to enjoy chestnuts?

Next Up

Why We Love Tofu

If you’re looking to reduce your cholesterol or eat more plant foods, tofu is an excellent protein-packed option.

Why We Love Mayo — and You Should Too

The truth is, your Memorial Day BBQ won't be complete without it.

22 Postpartum Gifts We Love for New Moms

These gifts for new parents are a thoughtful way to show you care.

19 Hispanic- and Latino-Owned Food Businesses We Love

You’ll want to save a spot in your pantry for these products.

50 Women-Founded Food Businesses We Love to Shop From

Let’s honor International Women’s Day March 8, and always.

We Tested the $110 Grocery Bag Everyone Is Obsessed With — and We're IN LOVE

Don't worry. If the $100+ price tag isn't for you, we found dupes.

We Tested Caraway's New Steamer Set

If you own a Caraway Cookware Set and are curious about this brand-new accessory, here's our honest review.

We Found Emily Mariko's New Favorite Dinnerware

Take your salmon rice bowl to a new (Emily-approved) level!

We Recreated Olivia Rodrigo’s $18 Erewhon Smoothie

Food Network Kitchen whipped up a copycat recipe — and figured out how much it costs to make the smoothie at home.