Chestnut Guide
From the orchard to your kitchen
Make the most of your harvest with guidance on picking, storing, and preparing chestnuts.
U-Pick Chestnuts
Start by checking in with the farm team. We’ll show you where to pick and how to recognize chestnuts that are ready to harvest.
Follow the picking demonstration and posted field rules. Ask the team before handling unfamiliar nuts or opening the prickly burrs.
Before you leave, ask about preparing your harvest at home and which activities are available that day.
Store, prepare & enjoy
Storing Chestnuts
In your sink or a large bowl, mix 4 cups of water and 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar.
Soak the chestnuts in the mixture for a few minutes to dislodge dirt and residue.
Rinse thoroughly in cool water after soaking to remove any lingering apple cider vinegar smell or taste.
Place the chestnuts on a towel, drying mat, or packing paper overnight. It’s important to make sure the chestnuts are completely dry before storing them in the refrigerator to prevent mold from forming.
Take a Hefty or Ziploc gallon-size freezer bag. Use the tip of your scissors to make 9 slits, or use a hole punch to make 9 holes. Then place your chestnuts inside the bag.
Place the freezer bag in the crisper drawer in the fridge. They should stay fresh this way.
You can also cook, peel, and then freeze the chestnuts.
