The Trouble With Chestnuts: Episode 2 — Reader Valerie sorts out the pretender tools from the contenders

Those of you who read the December 4, 2004 post about chestnuts (yes, all twenty–three of you) may recall that when we left the topic, I had noted my reliance up to that time on the Chestnut Critter (below),

a relatively inexpensive ($3.99) device intended to safely score your chestnuts prior to roasting.

I also reviewed the Chestnutter (top), a newer arrival on the chestnut scene, on the basis of a description of the device provided by Jasco, the manufacturer.

Fast forward thirteen months to 11 days ago — Friday, January 13, 2006 — when Valerie, a stalwart reader from back in the day, emailed the following critique of these two chestnut scoring tools.

Joe,

Almost one year later, I have used my Chestnut Critter and lamented its inability to stand up to the pesky nuts.

However, this Christmas I have received a Chestnutter (also learned about from you).

I LOVE my Chestnutter.

It is sturdier than the Critter with sharp blades that stay put (as opposed to separating from the tool upon wedging in the nut itself).

Oh, the blades do wedge, though - but that goofy-looking second arm [below]



firmly wrestles the nut loose from the tool.

Well-rounded nuts are best to use - they fit best in the tool's bowl and allow for the deepest cut, thereby allowing for the easiest peel.

Avoid the flat ones.

The Chestnutter isn't perfect, as some nuts still resist the removal of all of their skin.

Not that I can blame them.

However, the roasted chestnuts are still worth it - especially with a little butter.

So, I hope you have had the opportunity to enjoy this delicacy during their present season.

And, if you had similar trouble with the Critter, I wanted to spread the good word about an alternate solution.

Happy New Year!

-Valerie

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The Chestnut Critter costs $19.99 here.

You will note that it is out of stock there, as is the case with all the stores online that carry it.

This is not surprising considering the holiday season recently passed.

I suggest either visiting a Bed, Bath & Beyond store in person or waiting till the websites restock.

However, if you don't mind paying a $5 premium, the manufacturer will sell you one direct for $24.95 here (Click on "Buy Now").

If I were the cynical sort I'd wonder if Jasco, the company that makes it, is creating an artificial shortage of their device in order to squeeze that nice $5 surcharge/profit out of anyone who wants to buy one in the foreseeable future.

Nah... that's not how businesses do things... is it?