To preserve the signature crispness of water chestnuts in a simmering dish, when should they ideally be introduced during the cooking process?
Answer
In the final three to five minutes of cooking time
The highly valued, distinct, water-laden crispness of the water chestnut texture is very sensitive to heat exposure over time. If added too early to preparations like stews or sauces, they lose their signature snap and soften considerably. To maximize this textural appeal, the best guideline advises introducing them only near the end of the cooking sequence. Specifically, fresh water chestnuts should be added during the last three to five minutes of simmering. Alternatively, they can be added raw to a hot dish immediately before serving, allowing only residual heat to warm them without compromising their structural integrity.
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