Autumn, when nature takes on new colours, is the season that brings people to the area of Oltrepò Pavese to gather chestnuts. The woods where they can be found are abundant and offer the opportunity not only to return home with a basket full of this delicious prey, but also to spend a wonderful day in the open air with the flavour of a feast.
Although chestnuts can be found until November, the best time to pick them is in October. When it comes to choosing a location, however, you are spoilt for choice. From Colli Verdi, an area rich in chestnut groves, to Rocca Susella. Then Brallo di Pregola, Pietragavina, Sant'Alberto di Butrio. The list goes on and on.
The Harvest
In order to find chestnuts in Oltrepò Pavese, it is enough to go for a walk in one of the many mid-hill woods in the area, which are often equipped with marked paths and trails.
For picking, it is advisable to use a wicker basket or a jute sack, avoiding plastic bags or other materials that do not allow proper transpiration. A wooden stick will allow you to pick the leaves off the ground without bending over and to check the undergrowth for fruit.
Those who do not have time to dedicate themselves to manual harvesting can refer to one of the many chestnut festivals organised in the area. Among the most historic ones are those of Pietragavina and Rocca Susella, in Chiusani.
Once back home, the chestnut harvest can be used to prepare many traditional local dishes. For example, polenta and chestnuts or chestnut desserts. Or the two classic ways: roasted or boiled.
Chestnuts for energy
Chestnuts are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide long-term energy and help to keep blood sugar levels stable. They are also rich in fibre, which improves digestion and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. They are also an important source of vitamins and minerals. In particular, they are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and fight free radicals. They also contain B vitamins, which are important for metabolism and nervous system health, and minerals such as iron, zinc and potassium, which are essential for healthy bones, heart and nervous system.
