In the fall, chestnuts are synonymous with the season. The National Health Service (SNS) highlighted fascinating facts about this “rich and storied food” in a social media post on Saturday.
“The streets are already filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts,” the SNS mentions, adding that “the chestnut tree appeared more than 90 million years ago in the eastern Mediterranean region.”
Furthermore, “chestnuts are likely one of the oldest foods consumed by Europeans.”
If you’ve already enjoyed a chestnut feast, take note of their numerous benefits. The SNS emphasizes that “just ten roasted chestnuts—about 84 grams—provide 17% of the daily fiber, 36% of vitamin C, 21% of vitamin B6, and 15% of folic acid requirements.”
In addition to these advantages, chestnuts are also very versatile and can be included in meals in various ways. “Roasted or boiled, in soup or as a side dish, in desserts or bread, enjoy chestnuts,” advises the SNS.
The publication concludes with a vital appeal: “Support local producers, too.”
Discover some interesting facts about chestnuts. Enjoy this rich and storied food. #Saúde #SNS #Magusto
© @DGSaude pic.twitter.com/iKItd1tyT3— SNS_Portugal (@SNS_Portugal) November 15, 2025
How to Choose the Best Chestnuts?
Selecting the best chestnuts can be challenging, but some tricks can help.
If you find them loose rather than bagged, there are ways to ensure you’re choosing good chestnuts: “Pick chestnuts by hand to ensure they are of the same size. If you’re roasting them, uniform-sized chestnuts will cook at the same time,” explained Foolproof Living.
Another important tip is to check the chestnuts’ shell. “Look for those that are more vibrant, smooth, shiny, without blemishes or mold. Feel the texture to ensure the skin isn’t dry.”
With Saint Martin’s Day approaching, learning how to choose and cut chestnuts is essential. Discover useful tips to ensure your chestnuts are perfect. See what to do.
Adriano Guerreiro | 13:06 – 10/11/2025
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