Learn the health benefits and culinary uses of sweet chestnuts. Discover where to buy them and how to prepare them.
Not all chestnuts are safe to eat. Wild horse chestnuts, commonly found in Poland, are toxic due to harmful saponins. However, sweet chestnuts, known as Castanea sativa, are from a different plant family and are safe and nutritious.
Health Benefits of Chestnuts
Chestnuts offer numerous health benefits. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting the nervous system, detoxifying the body, and boosting immunity. Regular consumption can improve skin elasticity and promote healthy digestion.
How to Use Chestnuts in Cooking
Versatile in the kitchen, sweet chestnuts can be eaten raw, boiled, or roasted. They add a sweet, nutty flavor to salads, soups, and desserts. Roasting them at 200°C for 30 minutes is a popular method to enjoy their natural sweetness.
Where to Buy Chestnuts?
You can find them in supermarkets, health food stores, or online. Their price varies, with raw chestnuts costing around 8 PLN per 100g, and chestnut flour being pricier.