Can Chestnuts Be Prepared to Be Crunchy?

The Hunger for Crunchy Chestnuts

Imagine a world where chestnuts are not just a side dish but a delightful treat to savor throughout the year. This is the world my friend and I inhabit, where chestnuts hold a special place in our hearts, especially during the holiday season. One day, my friend caught me eating a bag of popcorn and brought up a question that made me giggle: 'Can chestnuts be prepared to be crunchy?' Yes, there are definitely crunchy chestnut recipes, but one that stands out among others is Marrons Glacé.

Marrons Glacé: A French Delicacy

“Marron Glacé” is a French term that refers to candied chestnuts. These delectable treats are a true delicacy and a popular holiday treat in France and Northern Italy. If you’re lucky enough to find them in a grocery store, they’ll disappear in no time. Last year, I had to deal with two 5-gallon buckets of chestnuts, and within a week, they were gone. No doubt, these festive treats are very popular during the holiday season, including Thanksgiving.

Harvesting and Preparing Chestnuts

Harvesting chestnuts can be a messy and challenging task. The chestnuts have spines that can pierce through gloves, and I once even rolled them in a shoe to test their hardness! Roasting chestnuts can also be a bit of a challenge, as the Christmas song "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire" suggests. It's not always a jovial activity. If you've tried preparing them, you know the struggle of gathering, peeling, and roasting them. The song, however, was written in a time when the process was far simpler!

Traditional Methods and Innovations

These chestnuts are typically steamed or boiled to achieve their signature soft and spongy texture. This process can be messy as the steam can cause the chestnuts to explode. This is why many prefer to prepare them in different ways to achieve a crunchy texture that's hard to resist. I use a leather chamois as my towel when peeling chestnuts, and I discovered this method by accident. It's a revelation that leaves you and yours smiling.

A Time-Consuming but Worthwhile Process

Sorting chestnuts and peeling them can be a bit tedious, but switching to a chamois towel turns the process into a delightful tradition. If you're feeling adventurous and want to try your hands at making these delightful treats, you can follow this recipe for Marrons Glacé. You'll need to do some preparation ahead of time, but the process is worth it for the end result. Candied chestnuts, especially when made with real maple syrup, are an exquisite treat that's hard to resist. The tradition of preparing them with a chamois towel is something I look forward to each year.

Enjoying the Process and Results

While the preparation process can be time-consuming, it's a cherished experience. When Nat King Cole persuades me to at least fire-roast a few chestnuts for the kids, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. The process, though challenging, is a delightful reminder of the holiday season. These crunchy chestnuts not only satisfy a sweet tooth but also add a sense of warmth and joy to the festivities. So, the next time you're in the market for some festive treats, consider trying your hand at making Marrons Glacé. Your hands, and those of your loved ones, will be thankful!