Roasting Chestnuts

Learn to roast chestnuts without the open fire. If you love chestnuts, and have always wondered how to roast them at home – here’s how.

  • Rebecca Joerres
  • December 10, 2010

The smell of roasting chestnuts always reminds me of the holiday season in New York City, when it seems like there’s a street vendor roasting chestnuts on just about every other corner.If you love chestnuts, and have always wondered how to roast them at home – here’s how:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

  2. With a very sharp knife, cut an X in the rounded side of each chestnut, making sure to cut all the way through the shell. This is an important step, because it will prevent the chestnuts from exploding.

  3. Place the chestnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle a few tablespoons of water over the chestnuts, shake the pan, and bake for another 10-15 minutes.

  4. Wrap them in a towel, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. Crush them gently with the bottom of a heavy pan. Unwrap the towel, and place the chestnuts in a big bowl.

  5. Take the bowl to a comfy spot (a roaring fire is good) with some friends and family (and maybe some glasses of port). Peel the skins off of the meat, while you have a pleasant chat.

You can also give them a try in these recipes:

Chestnut and Wheat Berry Salad opens in a new tabBrussels Sprouts with Roasted Chestnuts opens in a new tabChestnut Stuffing opens in a new tabOr pick up a jar of prepared chestnuts to use in this Madeira-Glazed Chestnuts opens in a new tab recipe.How do you enjoy chestnuts?

Explore More

Guide to Pasta

Overhead shot of sliced quinoa-turkey meatloaf recipe with ketchup on plate

Healthy Comfort Foods Meal Plan

Image of protein bowl with quinoa, chicken, avocado, kale and lentils, garnished with lemon.

Mighty Bowls Meal Plan

Everything You Need to Know About Our Air-Chilled Chicken