Step 1 – Bring lightly salted water to a boil in a large saucepan.
Step 2 – Use a knife to cut an X at the base of the chestnuts, then add them to the boiling water.
Step 3 – Boil chestnuts for 10 to 12 minutes.
Step 4 – Heat the sugar, vanilla pod and water in a medium saucepan, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Step 5 – Remove chestnuts and peel them.
Step 6 – Add the peeled chestnuts to the warm syrup in the saucepan. Cook for 40 to 50 minutes on medium heat until soft. Refrigerate.
Step 7 – To make preserves, place chestnuts in sterilized jars and cover with syrup. Close the lids on jars and cook in a hot water bath for 20 to 30 minutes. Remove and cool.