Why should we eat chestnuts on cold winter nights?

2023-12-07 2023-12-07T08:09:21Z

ArabiaWeather - Cold winter nights conjure unforgettable memories when the air is filled with the scent of chestnuts roasted over the fireplace fires, and these velvety brown granules, which resemble a “little heart,” transform into gradual shades of color from reddish brown to burnt black, with their soft and tender heart remaining constant. The taste of roasted chestnuts is part of our memory, which oscillates between the flavor of roasted potatoes and pistachio nuts, as they merge together in our mouth with irresistible deliciousness, in a moment that mimics the warmth and taste of winter.

Chestnuts are known by many names, such as “Al-Qastal” and “Abu Farwa”. This tree species belongs to the oak family, and is grown in the warm, temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Chestnuts are famous for being used in salty foods, accompanied by rice or chicken, and they appear in sweets such as chocolate and “Marron Glace” dessert. Popular in France during the holiday season.

Chestnuts are grown in mountain forests around the world, from Europe to America, and from Japan to China, and their sizes vary between small, medium, and large. Some see chestnuts as a valuable food source, especially in the cultures of China, Korea, Japan, and the Mediterranean regions. Their cultivation goes back thousands of years, and they are considered... Greeks are a good choice thanks to their roasted or cooked taste, compared to almonds, hazelnuts and walnuts.

Benefits of chestnut

Chestnuts provide a variety of nutritional benefits, from enhancing digestion to supporting the immune system and maintaining healthy bones and blood vessels. These benefits include:

Improve digestion

Chestnuts are high in fiber, and research has shown that they help enhance digestion.

Antioxidants and anti-aging

Chestnut flower contains antioxidant properties, according to a study by Chosun University in Korea, which contributes to anti-aging and protecting the skin from skin cancer damage.

Strengthening bones and teeth

Chestnuts contain phosphorus, magnesium and calcium, making them beneficial for bone and dental health, and regular consumption enhances these benefits.

Resistance to anemia

Chestnuts contain iron and copper, which help prevent iron deficiency anemia.

Support the immune system

Chestnuts contain essential minerals such as copper, which enhances bone strength, and supports nerve function and the immune system.

Gluten-free food friendly

As a gluten-free ingredient, chestnuts are used in foods for people with gluten sensitivity and digestive disorders.

Maintaining blood vessel elasticity

It contains essential fatty acids that help maintain the elasticity of blood vessels.

Why was the chestnut called “Abu Farwa”?

The answer: Chestnuts, in their roots, are a type of plant that is grown in the northern part of the globe. Their original form is small shrubs that may develop to enormous heights, and their lengths vary according to their age, as these trees can live for thousands of years, and they are considered among the fast-growing trees, as Some of them reach a length of 30 meters, and are characterized by the nickname “Abu Fura” due to their growth inside a fur-like membrane. When the fruit matures, it grows beyond this fur to appear in its chestnut color, and thus people called it “the chestnut seed.”

The types of chestnut tree vary according to the environment they tolerate. You will find types such as European, American, Japanese, and Chinese chestnuts, and the type of each depends on the country in which it was grown. These trees are considered admired by people. Because of its diversity and ability to adapt to diverse environments around the world.

Why do we eat chestnuts in winter?

The answer: Thanks to it containing a double amount of carbohydrates and starch compared to regular potatoes, rice, and wheat, this meal is considered one of the wonderful foods that provide tremendous energy during the winter, as it gives you a feeling of warmth and fullness, and has a high nutritional value, and small quantities of it are enough to feel full, and many people prefer it. Of people after cooking or boiling it, and sometimes served with honey and butter.