Lisa Grentz, MS, RDN, CD
Chestnuts are more than just a classic holiday food. They have many nutritional and health properties. There are about 88 calories in ¼ cup of roasted chestnuts. Unlike other nuts and seeds, chestnuts are predominantly a source of carbohydrate rather than fat. Other unique features of chestnuts are their richness in vitamin C and folate. This nut is also a good source of vitamins (A, E, and B complex) and minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper, and manganese).
Chestnuts contain a number of antioxidants, which can reduce inflammation in the body and boost heart health. In addition, chestnuts are a good source of dietary fiber, which may aid in weight management, balance blood sugar levels, and improve gastrointestinal health. The following chestnut recipe was designed to aid digestion and offer constipation support.
Chocolate Chestnut Plum Brownies
2 medium plums, peeled, quartered, and pitted
7 oz (2 baking bars) 70% cocoa dark chocolate, cut into small pieces
¾ cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
½ cup honey or pure maple syrup
1 cup whole wheat flour or chestnut flour
¼ tsp. salt
1 cup roasted and peeled chestnuts, chopped
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line an 8” X 8” baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
Using a blender or food processor, puree plums and set aside.
Put the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl and set over a pan of simmering water (make sure the base of the bowl is not in contact with the water). Stir until melted and combined, then take off the heat and stir in the plum puree.
In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla, and natural sweetener until the mixture is thick, about 2 minutes. Fold in the cooled chocolate mixture. Fold in the flour and salt, then stir until the mixture is smooth. Fold chestnuts into the batter. Pour batter into the lined baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the brownies are just cooked and the top is shiny.
Remove from the oven and leave in the pan to cool completely, then cut into 12 squares and serve.
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