Have you ever tried a chestnut roasting on an open fire?  (Love the Christmas song!) Well, I got to try one over the weekend. And, did you also know they're very healthy for you, too?  

During my visit to "Newburgh Celebrates Christmas" with my dear mother-in-law, Mary, daughter Ashley, and niece Caitlin, we had the chance to sample some chestnuts that were roasted on a open fire.

Chestnut roasting on an open fire; Newburgh Celebrates Christmas; credit by Deb Turner
Chestnut roasting on an open fire; Newburgh Celebrates Christmas; credit by Deb Turner
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After peeling off the outside of the chestnut, I took a small bite.  And, I have to tell you that I like them!  They have the meatiness of a cashew, but don't taste anything like one.  They have, like a, potato taste.  Not sure how to describe it actually because it's very unique! Mary and Caitlin didn't like them.  But, Ashley did!  Thanks to the "Chestnut" guys and all the great people at Newburgh Celebrates Christmas in Historic Newburgh Inc. the roasted chestnuts were free!

Did you know this about "Chestnuts?"   (according to Dr. Oz)

Chestnuts are the only low-fat nuts, containing just 1 gram of fat and a little less than 70 calories per ounce of dried or roasted nuts. Additionally, chestnuts are the only nuts that contain vitamin C; in fact, just 3 ounces of chestnuts supply about 45% of the recommended daily amount of this vital antioxidant nutrient. And they’re a great source of dietary fiber, which helps lower blood cholesterol levels. When chestnuts are in season, you can roast them in the oven. If you’re pressed for time, you can buy them prepackaged and ready to eat any time of year. You should eat up to 3 ounces of chestnuts a day to maximize their benefits.

Nice to know!  So, eat some roasted chestnuts over an open fire this Christmas or throw them in the oven, whichever way you like!

 

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