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Roasting chestnuts in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this autumn treat. With a simple cut, brief soaking, and short roasting time, you’ll get perfectly crispy shells and a soft, sweet inside. Chestnuts are easier to peel than when baked in a traditional oven, and they’ll be ready in less than 20 minutes. A great snack to enjoy with a glass of cider or a cup of warm tea on chilly autumn evenings.
Ingredients for roasted chestnuts in the air fryer (serves 4)
- 1 kg fresh chestnuts
- Cold water for soaking
- Kitchen towel
Method
1Using a sharp knife, make a shallow cross cut on the flat side of each chestnut. This prevents them from bursting during roasting.
2Soak the chestnuts in cold water for about 10 minutes. This makes peeling easier and keeps the inside soft.
3Preheat your air fryer to 180 °C (350 °F). Place the chestnuts in a single layer in the basket.
4Roast for 12–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even roasting. The exact time depends on the size of the chestnuts and your air fryer model, so check towards the end to see if they’re done.
5Once roasted, wrap the chestnuts in a kitchen towel and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This softens the shells and makes peeling much easier.
Tips for perfect roasted chestnuts
• Always choose fresh, shiny chestnuts without any holes.
• For a more intense flavor, sprinkle them lightly with water or salt before roasting.
• If using a larger air fryer, roast in two layers but stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Instead of soaking, you can briefly blanch the chestnuts in hot water — this also helps with peeling.
• Roasted chestnuts pair wonderfully with cider, red wine, or warm autumn soups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I make chestnuts easier to peel?
Wrapping the roasted chestnuts in a kitchen towel and letting them rest helps soften the shells, making them much easier to peel.
How long does it take to roast chestnuts in the air fryer?
Usually 12–18 minutes at 180 °C (350 °F). Smaller chestnuts roast faster, while larger ones may need a few extra minutes.
Lahko kostanj spečem brez namakanja?
Yes, but soaking or blanching them briefly in water before roasting makes peeling much easier.
