Piedmont Chestnut Soup

Savor the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with our Piedmont Chestnut Soup. This hearty soup combines the earthy richness of chestnuts with the aromatic flavors of thyme and bay leaf. Whether you choose fresh chestnuts or pre-cooked ones, this recipe offers a velvety texture and a delightful taste of Italy. So, let’s get ready to create a bowl of comforting goodness that’s perfect for any occasion.

SERVES 6
PREP 5 MIN
USING COOKED CHESTNUTS
COOK 1 HR 55 MIN
FREEZE UP TO 3 MONTHS
BEFORE RICE IS ADDED

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 oz (225g) fresh chestnuts or 6 oz (180g) cooked peeled chestnuts
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 1/4 quarts (1 1/4 liters) chicken stock
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 oz (60g) risotto rice
• 2 tbsp (30g) butter
• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) milk
• A little truffle oil, to serve

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. If using fresh chestnuts, score a deep cross in the skin of each chestnut with a small sharp knife.
2. Place half a dozen chestnuts at a time in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap.
3. Microwave the chestnuts on High for 20–30 seconds or until the skins split.
4. Peel off the outer and inner skins with your fingers.
5. Place the peeled chestnuts in a pan along with the thyme, bay leaf, chicken stock, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
7. Add the risotto rice to the simmering soup and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
8. Stir in the butter and milk, and continue simmering for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
9. Remove the bay leaf and thyme from the soup.
10. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, if necessary.
11. To elevate this peasant soup into a culinary delight, serve each bowl with a few drops of truffle oil.

Piedmont Chestnut Soup is a warm and comforting Italian delight that celebrates the rich flavors of chestnuts, herbs, and truffle oil. Whether you’re preparing it with fresh chestnuts or pre-cooked ones, this soup is a testament to the simplicity and heartiness of peasant cuisine. So, take a culinary journey to the Italian countryside and savor the rustic charm of this delightful dish, perfect for warming your soul on a chilly day.

Indulge in the cozy flavors of Piedmont Chestnut Soup, a dish that captures the heart of Italian comfort food. Whether you’re using fresh chestnuts or their pre-cooked counterparts, this soup promises a velvety texture and a burst of flavor with each spoonful. Enjoy the rustic elegance of this Italian classic!