Autumn Bliss!

Northridge Blueberry Farm has chestnuts. You can pick your own in Conneaut!

Chestnut Season Begins!

This article is from the Oct 2025 North Coast Voice Magazine

Along the shores of Lake Erie, northeastern Ohio is known for its fertile soil, rolling vineyards, and rich agricultural traditions. Among its many treasures, one seasonal delight stands out each autumn: the locally grown chestnut. With their glossy brown shells and sweet, nutty flavor, chestnuts are more than just a nostalgic holiday treat—they are a nutritious, versatile, and delicious food that has deep roots in both culinary history and modern healthy eating.

A Seasonal Harvest

Chestnut season in Ashtabula County typically begins in late September and runs through November, when the trees drop their spiny burrs to the ground, revealing the shiny nuts inside. For local farmers and families, this is a time of gathering, roasting, and celebrating the harvest. The crisp autumn air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the scent of chestnuts roasting over an open flame create a sensory experience that is both comforting and festive.

Unlike many other nuts, chestnuts are harvested fresh and enjoyed in their natural state rather than dried. This makes them unique in both flavor and texture. Their slightly sweet, earthy taste pairs beautifully with both savory and sweet dishes, while their soft, almost potato-like consistency after roasting sets them apart from almonds, walnuts, or pecans.

A Nut with a Rich History

Chestnuts have been cultivated for thousands of years across Europe, Asia, and North America. In fact, the American chestnut tree once dominated the eastern forests of the United States before a devastating blight in the early 20th century nearly wiped them out. Today, thanks to dedicated growers and agricultural innovation, chestnut orchards are making a comeback, and Ashtabula County now has a new you-pick chestnut option – Northridge Blueberries in Conneaut.

Local farmers have embraced chestnut cultivation not only for its economic potential but also for its ecological benefits. Chestnut trees are hardy, resilient, and provide valuable habitat for wildlife. Their deep roots help prevent soil erosion, and their blossoms attract pollinators, making them an important part of the local ecosystem.

Nutritional Powerhouse

Chestnuts are often called the “grain that grows on trees” because of their unique nutritional profile. Unlike most nuts, which are high in fat and protein, chestnuts are low in fat and rich in complex carbohydrates. This makes them an excellent source of sustained energy, perfect for fueling the body during the colder months.

Here are some of the key health benefits of chestnuts:

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Chestnuts are a good source of vitamin C, a rarity among nuts. They also contain B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and iron, all of which support overall health.
High in Fiber: The dietary fiber in chestnuts aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Low in Fat and Calories: Compared to other nuts, chestnuts are significantly lower in fat, making them a lighter, heart-healthy option.
Gluten-Free: Chestnut flour, made from dried and ground nuts, is naturally gluten-free and can be used in baking for those with gluten sensitivities.
Antioxidant Properties: Chestnuts contain antioxidants such as gallic acid and ellagic acid, which help combat oxidative stress and support immune health.

This combination of nutrients makes chestnuts a wholesome addition to any diet, offering both flavor and function.

Culinary Versatility

One of the most exciting aspects of chestnuts is their versatility in the kitchen. They can be roasted, boiled, pureed, or ground into flour, lending themselves to a wide range of recipes.

Roasted Chestnuts: The classic preparation, roasting brings out their natural sweetness and creates a warm, comforting snack. Simply score the shells, roast them in the oven, and enjoy them hot.
Soups and Stews: Chestnuts add body and richness to hearty autumn soups and stews. Their mild flavor complements root vegetables, mushrooms, and meats.
Stuffings and Side Dishes: Chopped chestnuts are a traditional addition to holiday stuffing, but they also shine in grain salads, pilafs, and vegetable medleys.
Baked Goods: Chestnut flour can be used to make pancakes, breads, and cakes, adding a subtle sweetness and nutty depth.
Desserts: From chestnut puree in pastries to candied chestnuts, their natural sweetness makes them a favorite in confections.

Local chefs and home cooks alike are finding creative ways to showcase chestnuts in both traditional and modern dishes. Farmers’ markets and seasonal festivals often feature chestnut-inspired recipes, giving residents and visitors a chance to savor this local delicacy.

Supporting Local Agriculture

Choosing locally grown chestnuts not only provides a fresher, more flavorful product but also supports the farmers who are working hard to keep this crop thriving. Buying directly from local orchards or markets helps sustain the agricultural economy of NE Ohio and ensures that chestnut cultivation continues to grow.

Local farms welcome visitors during chestnut season, offering opportunities to pick chestnuts by hand, learn about the growing process, and enjoy the harvest firsthand. These experiences connect people to the land and foster a deeper appreciation for the food on their tables. Check out Northridge Blueberry Farm in Conneaut, Wintergreen Farm in Mantua, Rt 9 Cooperative in Carrollton, and Buckeye Chestnuts in Cleveland.

A Seasonal Celebration

Whether enjoyed roasted by the fire, incorporated into a festive holiday meal, or baked into a sweet treat, chestnuts bring warmth and nourishment to the season. Their unique combination of flavor, nutrition, and versatility makes them a standout ingredient that deserves a place in every kitchen. As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, chestnuts remind us of the simple pleasures of autumn and the importance of supporting local agriculture. Check out Ashtabula Harbor where the Kiwanis Club roasts most Saturdays and Sundays.

Self Resiliency

By celebrating and supporting this local crop, the community not only enjoys a seasonal delicacy but also helps preserve a tradition that connects past, present, and future. It’s listed as one of the top five trees to grow for building your own homestead – and community – self sufficiency (becomeselfsufficient.com. Eat some now, grow some for later!

U-Pick Chestnut Farms: Call in advance

Northridge Blueberry Farm in Conneaut

Wintergreen Farm in Mantua

Rt 9 Cooperative in Carrollton

Buckeye Chestnuts in Cleveland.

Local Farmers’ Markets

Still going strong – please continue to support your local farmers’ market!