Dried chestnuts are a convenient alternative to fresh ones. They are available by mail from Northwest Chestnuts.

Makes 8 servings

ACTIVE TIME: 1 1/4 hours

TOTAL TIME: 1 3/4 hours

EASE OF PREPARATION: Moderate

24 fresh chestnuts (3/4 pound)
1 stalk celery
1 lemon
1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed
1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
Salt & freshly ground pepper to taste

1. Using a sharp knife, score a cross on the flat side of each chestnut. Dip chestnuts, 4 or 5 at a time, into a saucepan of boiling water. Using a slotted spoon, remove chestnuts and peel away shells and inner brown skins. Place the peeled chestnuts in a large saucepan and add enough boiling water to cover. Add celery stalk and simmer, covered, for 30 to 45 minutes, or until tender. Drain, discarding celery, and refresh with cold water. Set aside.
2. With a vegetable peeler, remove the zest from half the lemon. (Save lemon for another use.) Cut the zest into julienne strips and place in a small saucepan; cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Drain and set aside.
3. With a paring knife, cut a small cross, 1/8 inch deep, in the stem end of each Brussels sprout. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook, uncovered, until tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain and refresh with cold water. (The vegetables can be prepared ahead and stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours.)
4. In a large skillet, heat broth and butter. Add the chestnuts and Brussels sprouts and toss over medium heat until heated through. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with the julienned lemon zest.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 142 calories; 3 g fat (1 g sat, 0 g mono); 4 mg cholesterol; 27 g carbohydrate; 4 g protein; 7 g fiber; 104 mg sodium; 565 mg potassium.
1 Carbohydrate Serving

MAKE AHEAD TIP: Prepare through Step 3. Cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours.