Castagne (chestnuts)

From north to south, castagne (chestnut) trees can be found everywhere in Italy. The towering tree offers summertime shade and fall fruit that is delectable. According to La Cucina Italiana, the delicious tiny nut has been a favorite of Italians for centuries. According to Healthline, it is a starchy yet soft nut enclosed in a dark auburn-hued shell that is rich in nutrients, fiber, protein, and antioxidants. In many parts of Europe each winter, street vendors selling chestnuts over an open fire can be found selling piping hot castagne, a classic holiday delight.

For your holiday meal, La Cucina Italiana advises roasting your own castagne in iron skillets over a flame or attempting to roast them in a hot oven if you are fortunate enough to have an open fireplace. Castagnes are a year-round delicacy with delicate, earthy, nutty, and somewhat sweet flavors that go well with both savory and sweet foods. They are not merely a winter holiday treat. The addition of castagne to traditional Italian recipes like risotto or loaded pasta like agnolotti is fantastic. They go well with roasted meats and vegetables as well as mushrooms. They taste great when combined with cocoa and a touch of espresso in whipped cream. Every autumn, castagne crème is used to fill pastries that contain candied citrus peel and shaved chocolate on top.