Sweet Candied Chestnut Recipe
Homemade Candied Chestnuts: A Delicious Alternative to Store-Bought
Instead of expensive pre-packaged candied chestnuts, make your own delicious version at home using simple peeled chestnuts! These homemade candied chestnuts are not only a delightful treat on their own but also a versatile ingredient for your baking projects. Enjoy this easy recipe for a sweet and satisfying snack or baking base.
Ingredients
- 400g peeled chestnuts
- 250-400g sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference and the natural sweetness of the chestnuts)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Water (enough to cover the chestnuts)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare your peeled chestnuts. Lightly blanching the peeled chestnuts in boiling water helps to remove any astringency and makes them more tender. Boil them for about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2
Rinse the blanched chestnuts quickly under cold water to cool them down. This prevents them from sticking together and improves their texture.
Step 3
Place the chestnuts in a pot and add enough water to generously cover them. Ensuring there’s enough water is crucial for even cooking and to prevent sticking during the candying process.
Step 4
Add all the measured sugar to the pot. You can adjust the amount of sugar from 250g to 400g, depending on how sweet the chestnuts are naturally and your personal taste. A good tip is to start with less sugar and add more if needed after tasting.
Step 5
Add the 1 teaspoon of salt and gently stir with a spatula to combine all the ingredients. Salt enhances the overall sweetness and flavor complexity.
Step 6
Now, simmer over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the chestnuts from sticking to the bottom of the pot, allowing them to cook and the syrup to thicken. Be gentle to avoid breaking the chestnuts.
Step 7
If the liquid reduces too much before the chestnuts are fully cooked, add a little hot water and continue to simmer over low heat. Avoid using high heat, as this can cause the chestnuts to burn.
Step 8
Your delicious candied chestnuts are ready when they become translucent and the syrup has thickened to a syrupy consistency. Taste and add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter result, then simmer briefly.
Step 9
Once cooled completely, store the candied chestnuts in sterilized glass jars in the refrigerator. They can be stored for over a week and are perfect for spreading on toast, or using as a delightful ingredient in cookies, cakes, and other baked goods.
