NETTLE SOUP

Description: Nettle Soup is a wholesome and nutritious dish, commonly foraged in spring when young nettles are abundant. This earthy soup combines the unique flavor of nettles with potatoes and onions, offering a rich and comforting experience with a touch of cream for added creaminess.

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Serving size: 4 Servings

Ingredients:

4 cups young nettle leaves (use gloves to handle them)
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the nettles: Wearing gloves, carefully wash the nettle leaves and remove any tough stems.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the diced potatoes and cleaned nettle leaves to the pot. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Using an immersion blender or regular blender (in batches), carefully puree the soup until smooth.
Return the soup to the pot if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using cream, stir it into the soup and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve the nettle soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of cream or a few extra nettle leaves for presentation.

Note: Nettles should be harvested carefully, using gloves to avoid getting stung. When cooked, the stinging properties of nettles disappear, leaving behind a delicate, earthy flavor in the soup.

This Nettle Soup recipe offers a taste of spring foraged ingredients, marrying the unique flavor of nettles with the heartiness of potatoes and the aromatic touch of onions. It’s a nutritious and comforting soup that celebrates seasonal ingredients.