Using the point of a paring knife, cut a small in the flat side of each nut.
Place the chestnuts in a saucepan with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 to 30 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the chestnuts. Peel 1 and check the inside after 15 minutes; when cooked the chestnut will have a dry, mealy texture similar to th