that use chestnut purée mixed with maple syrup and coconut oil for a vegan-friendly treat. Foraging for Your Own
: Often served as a dessert topped with whipped cream, this is a staple in Balkan pastry shops. : In Istria, maruni are used for marunjača , a traditional cake filled with rich chestnut paste. Modern Twists : You can find modern variations like No-Bake Chestnut Cakes kesteni
In Croatia, the most prized variety is the , particularly those from the slopes of Učka Mountain . Maruni are larger and sweeter than regular chestnuts, celebrated annually during festivals like the Kestenijada . How to Prepare "Pečni Kesteni" (Roasted Chestnuts) that use chestnut purée mixed with maple syrup
Whether you are foraging in a forest or buying a mesh bag from a local market, roasting them correctly is an art form. Modern Twists : You can find modern variations
: For easier peeling, wrap the hot, roasted chestnuts in a towel for a few minutes after cooking. This steams the skins slightly, making them slip right off. Beyond the Roast: Culinary Uses