RECIPES/VEGETABLES

CHESTNUT STIFADO

Product

Recipe-Ingrediants

A special dish that I have encountered during my travels in Crete. It is a delicate dish full of aromas and flavors that will pleasantly surprise you. It can be prepared during fasting days. You can serve it with rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes!

Ingredients:

1 kg chestnuts

1 kg small onions, peeled

½ wine glass of red wine

a splash of cognac

1 can of crushed tomatoes

2 cloves of garlic

some olive oil

salt - pepper

2 bay leaves

3-4 cloves

1 cinnamon stick

3-4 cloves

Directions

We prepare the chestnuts by making a small incision on the bottom. There are two methods to peel them: One is to roast them in a hot oven, making it easier to remove the shells, and the other is to boil them for a short time to facilitate the peeling process. Alternatively, you can also find pre-peeled chestnuts in vacuum-sealed packaging in the refrigerated section of large supermarkets.

In a deep pot, take the peeled onions and saute them until they become caramelized. Then, add the garlic, chestnuts, and gently mix them together. Extinguish the mixture with cognac and red wine. Add the crushed tomatoes, spices, and let it simmer on low heat until the chestnuts soften and the sauce thickens. If needed, add a little water.

  • Personally, I like to add around 6 finely chopped figs. They complement the dish beautifully! Give them a try!

Enjoy your delicious chestnut stifado!