Chestnuts in Brandy-Vanilla Syrup Recipe

3 lb raw fresh chestnuts
2 c. firmly packed brown sugar
4 c. water
1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
1 c. homemade brandy vanilla OR brandy

Cut an x on the flat side of each chestnut, and roast them in batches in the microwave. Peel, keeping the nuts as whole as possible.

Combine the sugar and water over low heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Raise the heat and bring to a boil. Add the nuts and, if the brandy is not already vanilla infused, the vanilla bean. Bring it to a boil again, then remove it from the heat and let it cool. Cover and allow to steep overnight. Bring it to a boil again, then distribute the nuts into sterilized 8 oz. jars with a slotted spoon. Divide the brandy among the jars, adding syrup to each jar to cover the nuts.

Put the lids on the jars and process 50 minutes in a water bath.