Name: Chestnut-Pear Smoothie
Total time: PLACEHOLDER
Ingredients: 1 cup ice; 1 ripe banana , peeled and halved crosswise; 1 very ripe pear , peeled, quartered, and cored; ½ cup peeled cooked chestnuts; 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter; ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom; 1¼ cups dairy or plant-based milk , plus extra as needed

Why This Recipe Works

Pairing cooked chestnuts with creamy banana and juicy pear evoked a profile reminiscent of autumnal baked goods that was inviting but left much to be desired in terms of texture. Chestnuts contain very little oil and can be quite fibrous, so they don't break down into a smooth paste. For a more pleasing texture, we added liquid in the form of milk and a few tablespoons of almond butter to make our drink velvety smooth. Ice created some light aeration during blending that turned the thick consistency drinkable. A final touch of ground cardamom solidified our festive flavor for a spirited smoothie that can be drunk during any season.

Before You Begin

We had the best success using jarred, peeled, cooked chestnuts; they are typically stored with other nuts or dried fruits. They are sometimes referred to as “shelled and ready-to-eat” chestnuts. Do not substitute water chestnuts for the cooked chestnuts.

Instructions

In order listed, add all ingredients to blender and process on low speed until mixture is combined but still coarse in texture, about 10 seconds, scraping down sides of blender jar as needed. Gradually increase speed to high and process until completely smooth, about 90 seconds. Adjust consistency with extra milk as needed. Serve.