Choose chestnuts that are free of blemishes and mold.
Many celebrate the holiday season by roasting chestnuts over an open fire, but this is not the only way to prepare chestnuts for consumption. Boiling chestnuts will also allow you to enjoy the vitamins and minerals that the nuts possess, including vitamin C, fiber, iron, calcium, magnesium and zinc. Choose chestnuts at the store that are fresh and large. Once they are purchased, boil and consume the chestnuts within a few days because these starchy nuts spoil quickly.
Instructions
1. Fill a medium-sized saucepan to the halfway point with plain water.
2. Rinse the chestnuts under cool water and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Cut an "X"-shaped mark onto the side of each chestnut with a sharp knife. This will allow the steam that builds up during the boiling process to escape the chestnut's shell.
4. Bring the water in the saucepan to a boil on high heat.
5. Lower the chestnuts into the water and reduce the temperature under the saucepan to a medium heat.
6. Allow the chestnuts to simmer for 10 to 20 minutes before removing the pan from the heat.
7. Drain the water from the chestnuts and allow them to cool completely before peeling away the shell and enjoying the nuts inside.
Tags: Choose chestnuts