Are Chestnuts Nutritious?
Updated March 07, 2014.
Chestnuts are traditionally roasted and served during the holiday season. They're not like other nuts --- they're sweeter in flavor and they have a different texture. They're nutritional content is different, as well.
Nuts are well-known for their healthy fats and nutritional content, especially almonds, walnuts and pecans. Although they're also in the nut family, chestnuts don’t resemble the other nuts nutritionally.
Chestnuts are lower in calories than other nuts, and they have more potassium and vitamin C. But the other nuts contain more minerals and healthy fats.
Roasting Chestnuts
Raw chestnuts are traditionally roasted and served during the holiday season. Rinse and dry the chestnuts and use a sharp knife to carve an X in each nut. This lets pressure escape during the roasting and makes it easier to peel. Place the chestnuts in a baking pan and roast them in a 425 degree oven for about half an hour.
Chestnut Recipes
Chestnuts can be purchased fresh, canned or frozen. They're used as an ingredient in a variety of dishes or served as a side dish all on their own. Look for recipes that don't add too much fat, sodium or sugar.
Braised Chestnuts
This side dish recipe includes a little wine and onions, plus soup stock. The chestnuts can be served whole or pureed.
Chestnut Carrot Bisque
This soup is perfect for starting a fall and winter dinner. It’s made with carrots, onions, celery and parsnips in addition to the chestnuts, and seasoned with cinnamon nutmeg and allspice.
Braised Pork with Chestnuts
An easy recipe that features pork, chestnuts and rutabagas. Serve with your choice of potatoes and green or colorful vegetables.
Related Reading
- How to Eat Healthy Foods During the Holidays
- How to Find Healthful Foods When You Travel
- Ten Holiday Foods That Will Ruin Your Diet
- Ten Holiday Foods that are Good for You
Source:
Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture -- National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Release 26. "Basic Report: 12167, Nuts, Chestnuts, European, Roasted." Accessed December 5, 2013." http://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/foods/show/3738
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