As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm and comforting dish to ease into the cozy evening. And what better way to do that than with the rich flavors and textures of roasted chestnuts? This autumnal staple is more versatile than you might think, and can be used in a variety of sweet and savory recipes. From hearty stews and risottos to decadent cakes and tarts, we’ve rounded up 18 delicious chestnut recipes to try this fall.
Creamy Chestnut Soup with Thyme
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the rich taste of chestnuts with the brightness of thyme. This creamy delight is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or dried chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the chestnuts for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add roasted chestnuts, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender; puree until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Chestnuts with Rosemary and Sea Salt
Roasted Chestnuts with Rosemary and Sea Salt: Elevate the humble chestnut to new heights with the earthy flavor of rosemary and the savory crunch of sea salt. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut an “X” on the top of each chestnut to help it open during roasting.
3. In a large bowl, toss chestnuts with olive oil, rosemary, and sea salt until evenly coated.
4. Spread chestnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until chestnuts are tender and caramelized, shaking the pan halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chestnut and Mushroom Risotto
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this comforting risotto recipe, featuring tender chestnuts and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1/2 cup cooked chestnuts, chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth and stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments and stirring, until the rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Stir in butter, chestnuts, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Chestnut and Chocolate Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the natural sweetness of chestnuts with the richness of dark chocolate, infused with a blend of warming spices. Perfect for a cozy evening treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and mashed chestnuts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in mashed chestnuts, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chestnut-Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this autumn-inspired recipe that combines the natural sweetness of chestnuts with the savory flavor of chicken breast. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked and chopped chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chestnuts, butter, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the chestnut mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Chestnut and Bacon Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the sweetness of caramelized chestnuts with the smokiness of crispy bacon, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb chestnuts, peeled and sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add sliced chestnuts to the same pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until caramelized.
4. Add minced garlic and cooked bacon back into the pan. Stir in white wine (if using) and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chestnut and Sage Stuffing
This savory stuffing recipe combines the rich flavors of chestnuts and sage with fresh herbs and aromatic spices, making it a perfect addition to your holiday meal. With its nutty aroma and subtle earthy notes, this stuffing is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried chestnuts, rehydrated
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups stale bread, cubed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the chestnuts, bread, sage, and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Dot the top with melted butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Glazed Chestnut and Brussels Sprouts
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of chestnuts with the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts, all tied together with a sticky glaze. Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 cups cooked and peeled chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, combine honey, apple cider vinegar, and cooked chestnuts in a saucepan over medium heat.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the glaze thickens slightly.
6. Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with glazed chestnuts and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chestnut Flour Pancakes with Maple Syrup
These pancakes use chestnut flour to add a unique nutty flavor and texture. Serve them warm with a drizzle of pure maple syrup for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chestnut flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chestnut and Apple Crumble
Warm up with this autumnal delight, combining sweet apples and nutty chestnuts in a crispy crumble topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 250g cooked chestnuts, chopped
– 100g rolled oats
– 50g brown sugar
– 25g butter, melted
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples and chopped chestnuts.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, melted butter, flour, and cinnamon.
4. Add the crumble topping mixture to the apple-chestnut mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Braised Chestnut and Red Wine Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of autumnal flavors, with the rich sweetness of chestnuts paired with the depth of red wine. A simple yet impressive dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or dried chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chestnuts, red wine, beef broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Chestnut and Cranberry Bread
Warm up with the comforting flavors of chestnuts and cranberries in this moist and aromatic bread. Perfect for a cozy winter evening or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup chestnut puree
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine chestnut puree, sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cranberries and walnuts (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Smoky Chestnut and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup combines the natural sweetness of roasted chestnuts with the earthy flavor of lentils, all wrapped up in a smoky aroma from smoked paprika. Perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted chestnuts (see note)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, roasted chestnuts, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Chestnut and Vanilla Ice Cream
This classic French dessert combines the rich flavors of chestnuts with creamy vanilla ice cream, resulting in a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup roasted chestnuts, peeled and chopped
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped chestnuts, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (including churning time)
Tips:
– Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
– This recipe makes approximately 1 1/2 quarts of ice cream.
Pan-Fried Chestnut and Spinach Gnocchi
Experience the rich flavors of autumn with this unique gnocchi recipe, infused with roasted chestnuts and wilted spinach. These pillowy dumplings are a perfect canvas for your favorite sauces.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chestnut puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the pan with about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chestnut puree, all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
4. Fold in chopped spinach into the dough.
5. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
6. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
7. Fry the gnocchi for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Serve hot with your favorite sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Chestnut and Pear Tart
Chestnut and Pear Tart: A sweet and savory combination of roasted chestnuts and caramelized pears, nestled in a buttery pastry crust.
Honey-Glazed Chestnut and Walnut Salad
This autumnal salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted chestnuts with the crunch of toasted walnuts, all tied together with a sticky honey glaze. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and peeled chestnuts
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh walnuts
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, and salt.
3. Toss chestnuts with 1 tablespoon of the honey glaze until well coated.
4. Spread chestnuts on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
6. Combine roasted chestnuts and toasted walnuts in a bowl.
7. Drizzle remaining honey glaze over the salad and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chestnut and Dark Chocolate Truffles
Rich and decadent, these Chestnut and Dark Chocolate Truffles are the perfect treat for the holidays. With the natural sweetness of chestnuts paired with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and mashed chestnuts
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mashed chestnuts, confectioners’ sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Fold melted chocolate into the chestnut mixture until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
6. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch) and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None, as these truffles are no-bake!
Summary
Get cozy with these 18 delicious chestnut recipes! From creamy soups to sweet treats, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy roasted chestnuts with rosemary and sea salt as a snack or try them in a risotto dish. Savor the flavors of spiced cake, stuffed chicken breast, caramelized pasta, and more. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a unique dessert, these chestnut recipes are sure to delight.
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