Nettle food

Nettle dish: a spring delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Every spring, when nature comes back to life, nettles appear with their vibrant green and unmistakable aroma. These aromatic plants are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits, being rich in vitamins and minerals. Over time, nettle dishes have been appreciated by many cultures, symbolizing the season of rebirth and the connection to nature. It is perfect for those who are fasting as well as for those who want a light and healthy meal.

Ingredients:
- 250 g young, fresh nettles
- Water
- 4-5 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- 1 medium onion
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- A handful of fresh or frozen lovage, chopped

Step by step:

1. Preparing the nettles: Start by washing the nettles very carefully. It is good to rinse them in several waters to ensure they are clean. These plants can be quite dusty, so don’t rush. Once the nettles are clean, place them in a pot of boiling water and blanch them for 2-3 minutes. This step not only removes any impurities but also reduces the stinging that nettles can cause.

2. Cooling the nettles: After blanching, remove the nettles from the water and drain them well. Place them on a clean towel to cool and drain completely.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a deep pan, sauté the peeled and finely chopped onion in the heated oil. Add a little water to prevent burning. Let the onion become golden and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Adding the nettles: When the onion is ready, add the finely chopped nettles. Sauté them in the pan with the onion, stirring constantly. Cover with a cup of the water in which the nettles were blanched, two cups of water, and a pinch of salt. Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes until the nettles are well cooked.

5. Preparing the roux: In a small bowl, mix the flour and cornmeal with a little water until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. It should have a consistency similar to yogurt. Add this mixture over the nettles, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking until the dish thickens and the cornmeal is cooked, about 5-10 minutes.

6. Finalizing the dish: Finally, add the peeled, washed, and sliced garlic, as well as the chopped lovage. Mix well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes for the flavors to combine.

7. Serving: If you are fasting, you can enjoy this nettle dish as is, savoring its fresh and aromatic taste. If you are not on a diet, we recommend serving it with a soft fried egg and a portion of polenta. This combination adds a creamy texture and an extra flavor.

Practical tips:
- Buy fresh nettles, preferably from a trusted source or even from your garden, if you have one. Make sure they are tender and green, without spots or pests.
- You can experiment with other greens, such as spinach or sorrel, to add a different note to your dish.
- If you like strong flavors, feel free to add a little chopped chili!

Nutritional benefits:
Nettles are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium, making them ideal for supporting the immune system and bone health. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and are considered an ally in detoxifying the body.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen nettles? Yes, frozen nettles are a good alternative, especially out of season. Make sure to thaw them before use.
- What other recipes can I try with nettles? You can use nettles in soups, salads, or even in fillings for pies.
- Can I replace garlic? If you don’t like garlic, you can use green onion or cumin to add an interesting flavor.

This nettle dish is not just a simple and quick recipe, but also a way to connect with nature and remind you of the beauty of the spring season. Enjoy every bite and relish the health that this dish brings!

 Ingredients: 250 g young, fresh nettles; water; 4-5 tablespoons of oil; one onion; salt; one tablespoon of flour; two tablespoons of cornmeal; 4-5 cloves of garlic; a handful of chopped lovage from the freezer.

 Tags:  nettle food post