Boiled Chestnuts

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   To prepare as a vegetable, peel and skin: 1½ pounds fresh chestnuts (3 cups peeled)

2. Step 2.

   or use: 12 ounces vacuum-packed chestnuts

3. Step 3.

   Bring 8 cups water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the chestnuts along with: 2 celery ribs, coarsely chopped; 1 small onion, coarsely chopped; 1 tablespoon salt

4. Step 4.

   Simmer gently, uncovered, until the nuts can be pierced easily with the point of a paring knife, 30 to 40 minutes for fresh or about 15 minutes for vacuum-packed chestnuts. Drain well (discard the celery and onion).

5. Step 5.

   Toss with: 2 to 3 tablespoons butter, to taste; Salt and black or white pepper to taste