Chestnut and Bacon Bites

Chestnut and Bacon Bites are a tasty dish suitable for a tempting appetizer or an autumnal snack. Here is the recipe with an all-Italian twist.

Ingredients

• 20 fresh chestnuts
• 10 slices of bacon
• Extra virgin olive oil (for brushing)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
2. Make an incision on the skin of the chestnuts using a sharp knife. This will prevent the chestnuts from exploding during cooking and make them easier to peel.
3. Place the chestnuts on a baking tray and roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the skin has opened up and the inner flesh is soft.
4. Remove the chestnuts from the oven and let them cool enough to handle. Once they are lukewarm, peel them by removing both the outer shell and the inner skin.
5. Cut each slice of bacon in half to get two shorter strips.
6. Wrap each chestnut with a strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
7. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and lightly brush with extra virgin olive oil.
8. Bake the bites at 180°C (356°F) for about 10-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve the chestnut and bacon bites hot, garnishing the dish with sprigs of fresh rosemary for an additional aroma, if desired.

Curiosity

In Italy, chestnuts are highly valued and used in various ways in the kitchen, especially during the autumn months. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of chestnuts with the savouriness of the bacon, creating a contrast of flavors that is particularly pleasing. On Italian tables, you might find these bites as part of the appetizers at a dinner with friends or as street food at local festivals dedicated to the chestnut.