Roasted Chestnuts with Sea Salt and Butter

Introduction

Few foods capture the coziness of the holiday season quite like Roasted Chestnuts with Sea Salt and Butter. Their rich, nutty, slightly sweet flavor paired with warm butter and a sprinkle of flaky salt makes them irresistible. Whether you’ve seen them roasting over open fires in festive markets or enjoyed them straight from the oven on a chilly evening, chestnuts are a timeless winter treat.

This recipe gives you the perfect golden-brown roasted chestnut, with tender, creamy flesh inside and a subtle smokiness outside. A touch of butter enhances their natural sweetness, while sea salt balances everything beautifully.

They’re simple, elegant, and nostalgic—just the kind of recipe that warms both hands and hearts during autumn and winter gatherings.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it feels like comfort in its purest form. The first crack of the roasted shell, the earthy aroma that fills the kitchen, and the buttery-salty finish create a food experience that is both rustic and luxurious at the same time.

This recipe captures the essence of the holiday season—it reminds me of Christmas markets, cozy evenings by the fire, and the simple joy of sharing warm food with loved ones. The chestnuts themselves are soft, slightly sweet, and nutty, and when paired with melted butter and flaky sea salt, they become an indulgent little treat that’s impossible to stop eating.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Holiday Classic: A tradition across Europe, especially around Christmas.
• Comfort Food: Warm, buttery, and wholesome.
• Impressively Simple: Only a handful of ingredients but so elegant.
• Versatile: Can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or even in holiday recipes like stuffings and soups.

This dish is a must-try because it brings a little old-world charm into your kitchen with minimal effort.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: ~40 minutes

Servings & Calories

• Servings: 4 (as a snack or side)
• Calories (per serving): ~180 kcal

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: European (Italian, French, and Christmas Markets worldwide)
• Course: Snack, Side Dish, Holiday Treat

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) fresh chestnuts (look for shiny, firm shells)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1–2 tsp flaky sea salt (to taste)

Optional:

• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweetness
• A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for festive flavor

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Score chestnuts with a cross on the flat side.
2. Roast in oven until shells peel back and nuts are tender.
3. Peel while warm, toss with melted butter and sea salt.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prep the Chestnuts

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse and dry the chestnuts.
3. Using a sharp knife, score an “X” into the flat side of each chestnut (this prevents them from bursting).

Step 2: Roast the Chestnuts

1. Place chestnuts on a baking sheet, cut side up.
2. Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until shells curl back and chestnuts are golden and fragrant.
3. Shake the pan halfway through roasting for even cooking.

Step 3: Peel and Finish

1. Remove from oven and cover with a clean kitchen towel for 5 minutes (this helps loosen shells).
2. While still warm, peel away shells and inner skin.
3. Toss peeled chestnuts with melted butter and sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt.

How to Serve

• Serve warm in a rustic bowl lined with parchment.
• Pair with mulled wine, hot chocolate, or spiced cider.
• Use leftovers in salads, stuffings, or pureed into soups.

Recipe Tips

• Always score chestnuts deeply enough to cut through the outer shell.
• Roast only fresh chestnuts—old ones may taste bitter or mealy.
• Peel while warm; once cooled, the skins become tougher.
• If using a cast-iron skillet, chestnuts develop a deeper roasted flavor.

Variations

• Sweet Version: Toss with butter, honey, and a dusting of cinnamon sugar.
• Savory Version: Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the butter.
• Fire-Roasted: Cook over hot coals or an open flame for extra smokiness.
• Stuffing Add-In: Chop roasted chestnuts and fold into Thanksgiving or Christmas stuffing.

Freezing & Storage

• Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept in a paper bag for 1 day.
• Refrigerator: Store peeled chestnuts in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze peeled chestnuts for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat in a skillet with butter.

Special Equipment Needed

• Sharp paring knife (for scoring)
• Baking sheet
• Clean kitchen towel
• Oven (or cast-iron skillet if roasting on stovetop/fire)

Conclusion

Roasted Chestnuts with Sea Salt and Butter are a timeless, cozy snack that embody the magic of autumn and winter. They’re simple to prepare, yet elegant enough for holiday feasts. With their creamy texture, nutty flavor, and buttery finish, they’ll transport you straight to a festive European market.