Pecans, as well as other nuts, may be toasted to enhance their flavor.
There are two ways to toast nuts: in a 350 degree oven for about seven minutes, stirring them from time to time to prevent burning, or on the stove top in a skillet.
To prevent fresh chestnuts from exploding, carefully score each nut through the skin using the tip of a knife to make an 'x' on the rounded side of the nut. You may wish to prevent slippage by placing nut on a skid-proof surface before scoring.
Toast on medium to high heat, stirring frequently.
As soon as nuts begin to smoke a little, they release their aroma and are ready.
Chestnuts are ready when their skin is dark and peels back slightly. The flesh appears lightly golden. Transfer to a bowl or plastic bag and cover or seal to allow steaming and further cooking of chestnuts.
Once cooled, chestnuts are ready to peel and enjoy.
