Nettle soup

Nettle Soup – A Springtime Delicacy

Spring brings not only flowers and sunshine but also an explosion of refreshing and healthy flavors, and nettle soup is undoubtedly the star of this season. This soup not only combines the fresh and slightly spicy taste of nettles but also offers numerous nutritional benefits. Nettle soup is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants. Additionally, nettles have anti-inflammatory properties and help detoxify the body.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g fresh nettles
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar (to taste)
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons of sunflower oil or olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 200 ml milk

Preparing the nettle soup:

1. Cleaning the nettles: Start by thoroughly washing the nettles. They may contain impurities, so it is recommended to wash them three times under cold running water. Once clean, drain them well. If you are sensitive to nettle stings, you can wear gloves during this process.

2. Sautéing the nettles: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the nettles and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and reduce in volume. This is an important step, as sautéing releases the flavors of the nettles, turning them into a savory ingredient.

3. Boiling the soup: After the nettles have been sautéed, add 1.5 liters of water to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil. Add salt and vinegar to taste; the vinegar will add a note of acidity that will enhance the flavor of the nettles. Let the soup boil for another 10-15 minutes.

4. Adding the garlic: While the soup is boiling, crush the 5 cloves of garlic using a garlic press. The garlic will add an intense and aromatic flavor, perfect for enriching the dish.

5. Creaming with milk: After turning off the heat, take a small bowl and mix the egg yolk with the cold milk. Gradually add this mixture to the soup, stirring constantly to avoid curdling the egg. This will give a creamy consistency and a refined taste.

6. Finishing the soup: Finally, add the finely chopped lovage. This will add a fresh aroma and a hint of greenery. The nettle soup is now ready to be enjoyed!

Serving: Nettle soup is served hot, plain or with a spoonful of sour cream on top and sprinkled with chopped green onions. It is an excellent choice for an energizing lunch or a light dinner. You can pair it with a slice of homemade bread for a truly comforting meal.

Customized version: If you want to try a more sophisticated version, you can add some diced potatoes or finely chopped carrots during boiling to enrich the soup and provide more textures. You can also replace lovage with dill for a different refined taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen nettles?: Yes, you can use frozen nettles, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well before use.
- How can I keep fresh nettles?: Nettles can be kept in the refrigerator in a plastic bag for up to 3 days. It is ideal to use them as soon as possible to benefit from all their nutritional properties.
- How healthy is nettle soup?: Nettle soup is a healthy choice, low in calories but rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it perfect for a balanced diet.

Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of nettle soup (approximately 250 ml) has about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream added. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, iron, calcium, and egg protein, providing an energy boost and supporting the immune system.

This nettle soup recipe is not just a delicious dish but also a wonderful way to connect with the spring nature. So, gather your fresh ingredients and enjoy a refreshing culinary experience!