Go Nuts: 5 Autumnal Chestnut Recipes

Autumn’s here! The leaves are turning gold, there’s a slight chill in the air and you’re considering getting your cosy knitwear back out of the cupboard. Oh, and there are tonnes of chestnuts falling!

Last week we shared a fun make and do post that will help you turn conkers into great projects for the kids. Now it’s time to get the kids back outside to pick up plenty of seasonal chestnuts. Never sure what to do with them apart from roast them? Finish up your next game of no deposit bingo and take a look at these scrummy autumnal recipes…

1. No Churn Chestnut Ice Cream from Nigella

Nigella is a huge fan of our homegrown autumnal nuts and she’s turned them into the perfect treat in this easy-to-make no-churn chestnut ice cream recipe. You don’t even need an ice cream maker for this delicious pudding. You will, however, need to learn how to make this scrumptious chestnut puree.

2. Montebianco by Jacob Kenedy

Rum, cocoa, blackberries, cream – this Italian dessert is a chestnutty delight – and it looks like a pile of crazy chocolate spaghetti. Hold the rum and this is a really fun desert for kids – the worm effect is a big hit!

3. Butternut Squash & Chestnut Risotto by Laura Young

Rich, earthy, scrummy – this risotto is a tasty, hearty autumnal feast! The richness of the two key ingredients, the texture of your fresh chestnuts, a generous glug of white wine and plenty of parmesan – what could be better?

4. Chestnut Soup with Bacon & Thyme Croutons by Delia

What could be more heartening on a chilly autumn day than a big bowl of soup? The salt and crunch from the bacon croutons is the perfect accompaniment to the earthy freshness of your carefully collected and peeled chestnuts – well worth the effort! Get the recipe here.

5. Chestnut & Red Wine Pate by The Vegetarian Society

Looking for a rich vegetarian spread that’s perfect with crackers and bread? Look no further. This decadent chestnut and red wine pate is full of indulgent ingredients and delicious flavours. Not bad for nuts you can collect for free, eh?

Do you have a favourite chestnut recipe or do you think that traditional roasted chestnuts are the best? Do you have any clever collecting or peeling techniques to share with your fellow readers? Let us know below or message  @TwoLittleFleas on Twitter.