Anna Sultana's Imbuljuta (Maltese Holiday Chestnut Dessert)

It's also been quite a while since I posted one of Ma's recipes.

Well, here's one of her Christmas recipes.

Imbuljuta is the traditional Maltese dessert served after Midnight Mass.
Or on New Year’s Eve. 

It has an aroma of spicy chocolate and citrus.

How great is that?

We always made a trip to Corona to get a few pounds of chestnuts.

Chestnuts weren't easy to find in College Point.

So, we had to make a trip.

But, it was worth it!

                        Imbuljuta 

Soak overnight

500 grams (a little over 1 pound) dried chestnuts

Remove any remaining peel.

Put the chestnuts in a pot and add

2 Tablespoons cocoa powder

4 to 6 Tablespoons sugar

Grated rind of 2 tangerines

1 1/2 teaspoons allspice

24 whole cloves

100 grams (about 4 ounces) dark chocolate (optional)

Cover with 

1 litre (a little over 4 Cups) water

Bring to boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, 

or until the chestnuts are tender. 

If necessary add some more boiling water.

Some folks like to add a dash of rum or brandy.
The kids might like adding chocolate bits to their servings.
Or pieces of a chocolate bar.

Hey, it is a time to celebrate!!!