When purchasing fresh water chestnuts, however, know who your supplier is first to ensure that the tubers, which you are buying, are fresh. Once you have purchased your water chestnuts, if canned, you can store them unopened in your home pantry. If a can has been opened or if you have purchased fresh water chestnuts, you can store them for up to one week in your refrigerator. However, you must keep the water chestnuts in a bowl of water. The water must also be changed every day in order for them to remain fresh while they are being stored.
Some people claim that their flavor is similar to a bland nut.
Water chestnuts also have a firm and crispy texture, which adds to their appeal as an ingredient in stir-fries, salads, or any meals where the vegetables to be used must have a crunchy consistency. Water chestnuts can also be used as a healthy and nutritious snack. For a quick treat, open a can of water chestnuts and rinse the water chestnuts thoroughly under cold water. Dry any remaining water off of the water chestnuts then eat them raw. One cup of water chestnuts contains approximately 135 calories.