Celebrate Chestnuts in Portugal with Magusto
- mcoelho813
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Introduction
Introduction to the significance of chestnuts as a symbol of Fall in Portugal.
Overview of São Martinho and the Magusto celebration.
Embracing Saint Martin's Day- Celebrate Chestnuts in Portugal with Magusto
Explanation of Saint Martin’s Day (São Martinho) on November 11th.
Every year, on November 11th, Portugal celebrates the feast of Saint Martin, a figure produced from legend and generosity. It reminds me a little bit of Johnny Appleseed, who went around and planted all the apples in America. Saint Martin was born around 316 AD, legend has it that when he was still a soldier, he found a beggar shivering, and cut his cloak in half and shared it with the beggar; instantly, a ray of sunshine broke through the clouds, giving rise to what the Portuguese call "Saint Martin's Summer," some unexpectedly warm days at the beginning of November. 11/11/2025 is absolutely a beautiful day in Portugal. Central Portugal is about 70°, sunny, with a slight breeze. A perfect 10.
Cultural importance of Magusto, the feast of roasted chestnuts. It is a time to reflect on the summer gardening and farm work. It's a time to breathe and slow down. November is a time to pick olives, make olive oil, and pick chestnuts.
Personal anecdotes of memories associated with gathering around the fire for chestnuts. Traditionally, families and friends gather in the village club, open one of the barrels of new wine (wine from the last harvest, or people bring a jug of their wine to share, and roast chestnuts over an open fire. Our town uses a wood-burning oven that’s surrounded by brick that was once used to make bread. The chestnuts are absolutely delicious roasted this way. My husband‘s village calls this celebration Magusto
Jeropiga is a local, seasonal, sweet, and comforting drink. My husband‘s family makes a liquor after they’re done making the grapes. They do not usually have the Jeropuga. I know a lot of Portuguese families enjoy it.
Chestnuts Celebration in Portugal
The Chestnut Tradition in Portugal
Description of roasted chestnut carts seen around Lisbon and during local festas. I have seen 2 types of carts. Most resemble a small hotdog cart. Chestnuts are roasted and kept warm. Chestnuts are purchased by the dozen. You receive the warm chestnuts in a bag with a bag attached for the empty shells. The warm chestnuts warm your thoughts and your belly.
Details of how chestnuts are sold by the dozen, offering a unique flavor experience.
Experiences of tasting warm, toasted chestnuts in vibrant Portuguese streets. Chestnut carts are also found at most festas in November. The warm chestnuts are a delicious treat paired with red wine or juice.
Celebrate Chestnuts in Portugal with Magusto
Global Chestnut Export Scene
Introduction to the top countries that export chestnuts: Italy, Turkey, Portugal, and Spain. Portugal is proudly standing at 6th for chestnut exports worldwide.
Surprising facts about China as a significant chestnut exporter. Asia is the largest producer and consumer of chestnuts.
Insight into Portugal's position as the 6th largest exporter globally, generating $13.2 million/year.
Health Benefits of Chestnuts
Overview of the health benefits of chestnuts, emphasizing their high fiber content.
Discussion on how chestnuts support digestive function, making them a healthy choice. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-chestnuts
Personal reflections on including chestnuts in a balanced diet.
Chestnuts in the shell
Delectable Portuguese Chestnut Recipes
Highlight traditional Portuguese recipes that feature chestnuts:
- Traditional Portuguese Chestnut Cake: A sweet treat that embodies the season.
- Chestnut soups: Comfort food perfect for chilly autumn days.
- Roasted pork loin with chestnuts: A savory dish that celebrates local flavors.
- Portuguese Onions, Chestnuts, and Bacon: A delightful combination of tastes.
Narrative on the joy of cooking and sharing these recipes with family and friends.
I slice the chestnut peels first and soak the chestnuts in water for 30 minutes before roasting. The extra water left in the drained chestnuts creates steam in the hot pan, keeping the chestnuts from drying out and making them easier to peel.
Recipe: Roasted Pork Loin with Portuguese Chestnuts. https://bakeafter.com/recipe/dish/roasted-pork-loin-with-portuguese-chestnuts/
Recipe. Chestnut soup http://www.thedragonskitchen.com/2015/12/portuguese-chestnut-soup.html
The Legend of St. Martin
Background on the life of St. Martin, including his origins and miraculous acts.
Detailed recounting of the legendary moment he shared his cape with a beggar, symbolizing kindness. Saint Martin was a young soldier when a beggar asked him for help. Martin cut his jacket in half and shared it with the beggar. The sky opened up, the sun shone down, the temperature rose, and the day was unusually warm for November. This is referred to as 'Summer of St. Martin'
Reflection on the “Summer of St. Martin,” the brief warm weather that accompanies his feast day. While 11/11/2025 was 70 degrees in Portugal, it allowed us to finish picking chestnuts and olives.
Roasted Chestnuts
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