Dad'S Chestnut Stuffing

Directions

1. 1
   To prepare the chestnuts and facilitate removal of the shell, use a sharp knife to slice a large X along the flat side of each chestnut. Place on a baking tray in a 400F (200C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, let cool enough to handle them. Peel and chop; set aside.
2. 2
   Using a food processor, a blender, or a large pan and a rolling pin, crush all the crackers from the box until finely crushed. Put in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
3. 3
   In a large skillet, melt a couple knobs of butter. Add the celery, and onion and cook until soft but not brown. You may need to add a bit more butter.
4. 4
   Add the celery and onion to the cracker mixture and mix well.
5. 5
   To the cracker mixture add the grated carrot, chopped chestnuts, parsley, water, egg and seasonings. Mix well.
6. 6
   Stuff the turkey, capon, or roasting hen lightly, truss and bake.