How to Cook Chestnuts

A Quick Guide How to Cook Chestnuts

For Visiting Tuscany in October

by Anastasia Bakker Tuscany, Italy September 3, 2025

Tuscany in October - How to Roast Chestnuts ta home In Tuscany everybody knows how to cook chestnuts. If you travel to Tuscany in October you have a great opportunity not only to eat roasted chestnuts bought on the streets but also to pick your own raw chestnuts and roast them yourself on an open fire! Moreover, cooking and roasting chestnuts is easy to do at home - on a grill in your back garden, in the oven or on pan.

In October you can buy roasted chestnuts practically on every big street in Tuscany, Italy. Since roasted chestnuts are best when served hot, roast chestnut sellers cook them right on the streets, on a grill or large roasting tray.

The first time I've tried a roasted chestnut in Italy I was amazed about its taste. It reminded me sweet baked potato but just... different.

In October, when the summer heat is gone and fresh autumn weather really takes over, the teasing aroma of smoke and heat of roasted chestnuts creates a magic atmosphere in Tuscany cities, and you almost can't resist it to buy a small pack of this treasure.

History of Chestnuts

How to roast chestnuts like a street vendor Chestnuts are very ancient nuts known in Italy since prehistoric times. They got brought to Europe from Asia Minor centuries ago, and got spread mainly on the south of France, in Spain and, of course, in Italy.

Although the best Italian chestnuts are grown in Sicily, Tuscany has some great chestnuts to roast and to taste.

How to Roast Chestnuts on a Fire

Best way to roast chestnuts is actually cooking over an open fire. You won't need much experience, you'll keep your kitchen clean, and you'll get a lot of fun. You will only need a chestnut roasting pan and a pair of thick gloves.

It is also an ancient European tradition - people get out on picnics in the autumn, particularly in October, and cook chestnuts right on open fire.

How to Roast Chestnuts on a Fire - Tuscany in October

You can pick edible chestnuts in a forest, in a park or just buy some in a supermarket. In any case you'll get the most amazing and unforgettable taste when roasting them directly on a fire or on carbon at your home backyard barbecue.

For a photo guide about how to pick, peel and roast chestnuts on a fire or on barbecue click below:

Roasting Chestnuts on a Fire

Must Have Chestnut Roasting Accessories

How to Roast Chestnuts in Oven

How to roast chestnuts in the oven at home - Cooking chestnuts My other chestnut roasting experience is connected with cooking chestnuts in oven.

Having made a necessary cross cut on each chestnut I was not very prepared on big and small chestnut explosions... my oven was messed up at the end. But oven roasted chestnuts still came out great!

After that Tuscan people have teached me how to cook chestnuts right. Read more about best way of

Roasting Chestnuts in the Oven

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How to Cook Chestnuts on Pan

How to cook chestnuts in a pan at home - Roasting chestnuts A specific chestnut roasting pan is the best to use for this purpose but you can still cook some good chestnuts even if you don't have one.

Chestnut pans are easy to buy in Tuscany, Italy in many shops. Alternatively, if you're not planning to visit Tuscany, you can order one online or find one somewhere locally. For roasting chestnuts on the pan you should prepare a regular or a specific chestnut frying pan, some napkins or a towel and a half-glass of water.

How to Pan Roast Chestnuts

Chestnuts Nutrition

Sweet chestnuts are the most popular kind of edible chestnuts. Chestnuts are high calorie products - like all the nuts are in general.

However, chestnuts are much lower in fats in comparison with other nuts like almonds or walnuts. Edible chestnuts contain minerals, cellulose, sugars, starch and vitamins C (uniquely among nuts), A and B group.

Although sweet chestnut are low in fats - only 5%, it is high in carbohydrates - up to 62%. Naturally gluten-free, making them a safe flour alternative (chestnut flour) for people with celiac disease.

FAQ About Roasting Chestnuts

Do you have to soak chestnuts before roasting?View Answer+

Soaking chestnuts before roasting isn’t strictly necessary, but many people prefer it. A short soak (about 30 minutes) can help soften the shells and make peeling easier. It also prevents the nuts from drying out while roasting.

How do you cook chestnuts so they peel easily?view answer+

The key is to score the shells (make a small “X” cut) before roasting or boiling. After cooking, wrap the hot chestnuts in a kitchen towel for 5–10 minutes to steam them slightly. This loosens the inner skin and makes peeling much easier.

Can you roast chestnuts in an air fryer?view answer+

Yes, chestnuts roast beautifully in an air fryer. Simply cut an “X” into each chestnut, place them in the basket, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes until the shells curl back and the nuts are tender.

Are roast chestnuts good for you?view answer+

Yes, chestnuts are lower in fat than most nuts and a good source of fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Roasting enhances their naturally sweet, nutty flavor without taking away their nutritional benefits.

Are roasted chestnuts good for dogs?view answer+

Plain roasted chestnuts (without salt, butter, or seasoning) are not toxic to dogs and can be given in very small amounts. However, they are starchy and can upset digestion if overfed. Always introduce cautiously and check with your vet first.

Are roasted chestnuts keto friendly?view answer+

No, сhestnuts are higher in carbohydrates compared to other nuts, making them unsuitable for strict keto diets. They’re better enjoyed in moderation if you’re following a lower-carb eating plan.

What do roast chestnuts taste like?view answer+

Roasted chestnuts have a mildly sweet, nutty flavor with a soft, almost potato-like texture. Unlike most nuts, they are starchy rather than oily, which makes them unique and comforting — especially when warm.