Chestnut flour: properties, benefits and how to use it in the kitchen

Gluten-free, with a sweet taste and a valid sugar substitute: here are the properties, nutritional values ​​and main uses in the kitchen of chestnut flour.

Chestnut flour, also called sweet flour because of its flavor, is obtained from the drying and subsequent grinding of chestnuts, of which it retains the main properties. It has a very fine grain and is of a light hazelnut color, moreover, thanks to its sweetish taste, it can be substituted for sugar in cake and biscuit recipes. Here are the properties, benefits and main uses of chestnut flour.

Chestnut flour: properties and nutritional values

Just like the raw material from which it is made, this type of flour has many benefits. Here are the main ones:

– Its high fiber content helps regulate bacterial flora and promote intestinal motility.

– It is also rich in proteins and lipids and has a fair amount of vitamins, in particular vitamin C and those of group B, respectively useful for the proper functioning of the immune system and the transmission of nerve impulses.

– Low in cholesterol , chestnut flour is also an important source of mineral salts, including calcium, sulfur, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. The latter, in particular, is useful for ensuring a good functioning of the cardiovascular system, to counteract fatigue and irritability and regulate mood.

– The high content of iron and folic acid make it an ideal ingredient for anemic or pregnant women.

– Finally, it is gluten-free , therefore it can be used by celiac people or in cases of gluten intolerance.

The large amount of proteins and vitamins, however, is accompanied by a high caloric intake : 100 grams of product contain about 343 calories . For this, it is recommended to consume it in moderation.

The contraindications of chestnut flour

As mentioned, this type of flour is a rather caloric food, for this reason it is not recommended for people who are overweight, obese or with diabetes. Like chestnuts , this type of flour then tends to cause abdominal swelling and aerophagia, especially if consumed in large quantities.

The high protein content, however, makes it an ideal food for those who practice sports , undergo physical efforts or are subject to psychological and mental fatigue.

Chestnut flour: recipes and uses in the kitchen

Chestnut flour is used above all to make castagnaccio , sweet polenta and necci, tasty Tuscan sweets with a soft ricotta filling. It can be used in the kitchen to make perfect sweet recipes or savory savory dishes.

It is in fact ideal for preparing cakes, biscuits or rustic desserts , but its more raw and sweetish-flavored dough is still excellent for making pasta, bread or tagliatelle, whose flavor will be more similar to wholemeal ones.

Finally, it is an excellent thickener for soups, sauces and stews to which it gives a strong taste and a creamier consistency.