Water chestnuts are walnut-sized bulbs of an Asian aquatic plant. The crisp texture and sweet "flesh" of fresh water chestnuts are divine. When choosing chestnuts, make sure they are smooth and firm. The brown skins conceal a crisp, slightly sweet white flesh that is fresh tasting even when cooked. Peeled whole, sliced, or chopped chestnuts are commonly canned. Fresh water chestnuts are found in Asian markets.