How to Roast Chestnuts

Here are some simple ways to roast chestnuts. The key is to score the nuts before roasting and peel before they are cool. 
In some places it is hard to find fresh chestnuts. I added a couple Amazon links below where you can purchase them.

 Photo Credit: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Casta%C3%B1as_asadas.jpg

Preheat oven to 425 F.

On the flat side of the chestnut cut a large X with a sharp knife all the way through the skin. (I listed a special knife below that makes this a little easier).

Put chestnuts on a cookie sheet or other shallow pan and roast in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, depending on size of nuts. Shake pan a few times to rotate chestnuts so they will cook evenly.

If you are cooking them just enough to peel, you only need to roast for 10 to 15 minutes.

Peel chestnuts as soon as they are cool enough to handle. If you wait until they are completely cool they will become difficult to peel. However, you can reheat them briefly to help in peeling.

Another method for smaller amounts is stove top. Place a few chestnuts in a skillet and cover.  Roast over low heat until done,turning often to cook evenly for about 10 minutes.

Chestnuts can also be roasted on the outdoor grill or fire. Watch carefully and turn them often.You can purchase a special roaster for this with a long handle.

Scarlett

• Cast Iron Chestnut Roaster - 22 Inches
• Paderno Black Carbon Steel 11 Inch Chestnut Pan
• Paderno World Cuisine Chestnut Knife, 6 1/4"
• The Chestnut Cook Book: Recipes, Folklore and Practical Information 
• Chestnuts, Fresh, approx. 1lb
• Gefen Whole Chestnuts, Roasted & Peeled , 5.2-Ounces (Pack of 6)