Chestnut Delight

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) chestnuts 500g (1.1 lb) chestnuts
• 500ml (2 cups) milk 500ml (2 cups) milk
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 2 tablespoons rum 2 tablespoons rum
• 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar (for caramelizing) 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 300 kcal / 1255 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 40g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°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 minutes.
4. 4.
   Remove the chestnuts from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Peel the chestnuts, removing both the outer shell and the inner skin.
6. 6.
   In a saucepan, combine the peeled chestnuts, milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla bean.
7. 7.
   Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 20 minutes, or until the chestnuts are tender.
8. 8.
   Remove the vanilla bean and transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor.
9. 9.
   Blend until smooth and creamy.
10. 10.
    Add the rum and blend again to incorporate.
11. 11.
    Pour the chestnut puree into individual serving dishes or a large serving dish.
12. 12.
    Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top of the puree.
13. 13.
    Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown and crispy.
14. 14.
    Allow the dessert to 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

• If you don't have a kitchen torch, you can use the broiler setting in your oven to caramelize the sugar topping. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
• For an extra touch of indulgence, serve the Chestnut Delight with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, pass the chestnut puree through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the serving dishes.

Serving advice

Serve the Chestnut Delight at room temperature or slightly chilled. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few roasted chestnuts for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation of the Chestnut Delight, serve it in individual glass dessert cups or ramekins. The contrasting layers of creamy chestnut puree and caramelized sugar will create a visually appealing dessert.