While the idea of roasting chestnuts on an open fire may be romantic or festive for some, it may be a lot of extra work for others. Chestnuts, left to their own devices, will go bad within a short period of time, so if you plan on keeping them around for awhile you will need to tend to them first. Cooking and storing chestnuts is a simple process that can ensure they are fresh and ready when you need them.
Roast the Chestnuts
Step 1
Shell the chestnuts carefully with the assistance of a nutcracker and set them aside or poke holes into the shells with an ice pick. If you are roasting chestnuts in the shells you will need to ensure that the heat inside has a way to escape.
Step 2
Spread the chestnuts onto a baking sheet evenly.
Step 3
Place the baking sheet into an oven preheated to 300 degrees F.
Step 4
Roast the chestnuts in the oven for 15 minutes.
Step 5
Remove the chestnuts from the oven and set them aside to cool.
Boil the Chestnuts
Step 1
Shell the chestnuts with the assistance of a nutcracker if necessary.
Step 2
Place the chestnuts into a pot and cover them with water.
Step 3
Bring the pot of chestnuts to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow them to simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 4
Pour the chestnuts into a colander and leave them to drain and cool for at least 20 minutes.
Step 5
Remove the chestnuts from the colander and spread them over a towel to finish air drying before storing them.
Tips and Warnings
- Place cooked, shelled chestnuts into a freezer bag and mark it with the current date. You can store cooked chestnuts in the refrigerator or freezer for up to one year. Freeze uncooked chestnuts before storing them for at least 24 hours to kill off any pests that may have taken up residence on your chestnuts. Store uncooked chestnuts in the shell at room temperature for up to two weeks in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
Things You'll Need
- Nutcracker
- Baking sheet
- Pot
References
- University of Minnesota: Chestnuts, Horse Chestnuts and Ohio Buckeyes
- University of California: Nuts: Safe Methods For Consumers to Handle. Store, aand Enjoy; Christine Bruhn. et al; August 2010
- Michigan State University: Storing Chestnuts - Cooked; August 1999
- University of Missouri: Chestnuts Provide Fall Memories; Mary Schroepfer; October 2004
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