Imagine a snack that combines the rich, earthy warmth of roasted chestnuts with the bold intensity of coffee and a perfect hint of salt. This isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary chestnuts into an extraordinary taste experience. Whether you're looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a gourmet moment, these Salted Coffee Butter Roasted Chestnuts are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chestnuts
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp coffee grounds
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chestnuts roast evenly and develop a nice flavor.
- Prepare the chestnuts by scoring them. Using a sharp knife, carefully make an "X" cut on the flat side of each chestnut. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape during roasting and prevents the chestnuts from exploding.
- Place the scored chestnuts in a bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes. This helps to soften the shells and makes them easier to peel after roasting.
- While the chestnuts are soaking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the coffee grounds to the butter and stir well to combine. This will infuse the butter with a rich coffee flavor.
- After soaking, drain the chestnuts and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. This will help them roast better without excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chestnuts with the coffee butter mixture. Toss well to ensure each chestnut is coated evenly.
- Spread the chestnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for even roasting.
- Sprinkle salt over the chestnuts to taste. You can start with a pinch and adjust according to your preference.
- Roast the chestnuts in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, shaking the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once the chestnuts are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. The shells will be hot, so handle them with care.
- While they are still warm, peel the chestnuts. The shells should come off easily due to the scoring and roasting process. If you find any stubborn shells, you can use a small knife to help remove them.
- Serve the salted coffee butter roasted chestnuts warm as a delicious snack or appetizer. Enjoy the unique combination of flavors!
Tips
- Always use a sharp knife when scoring chestnuts to prevent crushing the delicate nut inside.
- Soaking chestnuts in cold water is crucial—it helps soften the shells and makes peeling much easier.
- Don't skip the "X" scoring step, as this prevents the chestnuts from potentially exploding in your oven.
- Use freshly ground coffee for the most intense flavor infusion.
- Shake the baking sheet midway through roasting to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Let chestnuts cool slightly before peeling to avoid burning your fingers.
- If chestnuts seem tough, you can wrap them in a kitchen towel after roasting to steam for a few minutes, which helps soften the shells.
- Experiment with different coffee types to find your perfect flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 30mg
