Soak the chestnuts in cold water forĀ about an hourĀ . This softens them and makes it easier to remove the shell after cooking.
2.Ā Engraving
Drain and dry the chestnuts, then makeĀ a horizontal incisionĀ in the shell of each one with a sharp knife. This will prevent them from bursting during boiling.
3.Ā Cooking
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Add the chestnuts and, if you like,Ā a pinch of coarse saltĀ ,Ā a drizzle of extra virgin olive oilĀ andĀ aromatic herbsĀ to taste (such as oregano or bay leaves).
Boil for aboutĀ 45 minutesĀ , until the chestnuts become soft.
4.Ā Cooling and peeling
Drain the chestnuts and let them cool on a kitchen towel. While they’re still warm but manageable, peel them: soaking and making a cut will allow the skin to peel off easily.
ā Ā Why choose boiled chestnuts?
They areĀ lighterĀ than the roasted ones.
They retainĀ more nutrientsĀ (fiber, potassium, vitamin C and B).