Roasted Chestnuts with Fontina Cheese

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) chestnuts 500g (1.1 lb) chestnuts
• 200g (7 oz) Fontina cheese, cut into small cubes 200g (7 oz) Fontina cheese, cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   Using a sharp knife, make a small incision on the flat side of each chestnut.
3. 3.
   Place the chestnuts on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the shells start to peel back.
4. 4.
   Remove the chestnuts from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Once the chestnuts are cool enough to handle, peel off the shells and discard.
6. 6.
   Cut a small slit in the top of each chestnut and gently remove the inner skin.
7. 7.
   Place the peeled chestnuts in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
8. 8.
   Scatter the cubes of Fontina cheese over the chestnuts.
9. 9.
   Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chestnuts — Make sure to make a small incision on the flat side of each chestnut before roasting to prevent them from exploding in the oven.

Tips & Tricks

• To make peeling the chestnuts easier, soak them in water for 10 minutes before roasting.
• Serve the dish with a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
• For a smoky twist, sprinkle some smoked paprika over the roasted chestnuts before adding the Fontina cheese.
• If Fontina cheese is not available, you can substitute it with Gruyère or Emmental cheese.
• Serve the dish as an appetizer or alongside a green salad for a light meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Roasted Chestnuts with Fontina Cheese as a warm and comforting appetizer or as part of a festive cheese platter. Pair it with a glass of red wine to enhance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the roasted chestnuts with melted Fontina cheese on a rustic wooden platter, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs for an elegant and inviting presentation.