How to Prevent Your Chestnuts From Exploding (And Why It Happens in The First Place)

Who has never felt the thrill of hearing an explosion while cooking chestnuts? That little roar that scares children and enchants adults is a fascinating phenomenon, but also a bit mysterious. Why do some chestnuts decide to turn into little bombs? And how can we avoid unpleasant surprises in the kitchen? In this article we will discover everything there is to know about this phenomenon, revealing the secrets of a fruit that is so simple and at the same time surprising. Here's why chestnuts explode and what are the methods to avoid it.

Why Chestnuts Burst and How to Avoid It

Chestnuts are one of the most loved fall products: they can be cooked in many different ways, although the best method is certainly to bake them in the oven in the appropriate pan. During cooking, due to a physical phenomenon linked to heat and pressure, some of them may explode. Why does this happen? There are various factors involved: inside the chestnut there is a small amount of water; when the chestnut is exposed to heat, the water inside it turns into steam.  The water vapor, having no way to escape, exerts increasing pressure inside the chestnut. If the internal pressure exceeds the resistance of the peel, the chestnut explodes.

The bursting of chestnuts is a natural phenomenon linked to the presence of water inside the fruit and the increase in pressure during cooking. By following some simple precautions, it is possible to prevent chestnuts from bursting and enjoy them at their best. To prevent chestnuts from bursting, it is advisable to:

• Score them. Before cooking the chestnuts, make a cross-shaped incision in the skin. This way, the steam will have an escape route and can expand without creating too much pressure inside the fruit.
• Soaking. Soak the chestnuts in cold water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help soften the skin and reduce internal pressure.
• Gradual cooking. Gradually increase the cooking temperature. Start with a low temperature and slowly increase it. This will allow the steam to escape gradually.
• Suitable pot. Use a pot with a thick bottom and a tight-fitting lid. This will distribute the heat evenly and keep the steam inside.
• Check for doneness. Do not leave chestnuts unattended while cooking. Check frequently and remove any that have opened.