Discovering the forgotten delights of nettle soup
In some cultures, when this plant is mentioned, it is often referred to as "May" because during this month it is at its tastiest, most delicate, and juiciest. It's perfect not only for infusions but also for salads and soups. It's easy to see why, as you can find nettle practically everywhere.
Although I have been drinking nettle infusions for a long time, I had never eaten a soup made from it. At home, sorrel soup was a springtime favourite. However, a few years ago, I went on a May trip to Roztocze and there I tried nettle soup. I immediately added it to my repertoire of seasonal May dishes. It's delicious and healthy. I've become so fond of nettle that I also add it to meatballs.
What does nettle soup taste like?
Nettle soup is light and easy to prepare. If you are a fan of the aforementioned sorrel or beet green soup, you will definitely enjoy it. It has a distinct, vegetal taste. There are many health reasons to choose this plant, but we often underestimate it and just treat it like a weed.
This might be because nettles are associated with stings. That's why gloves, sharp scissors, and a wicker basket for gathering will come in handy. You'll find the plants in fields, meadows, and even in forests. It's important to choose places away from pollution. The best are young plants with firm, intensely green leaves. The top four leaves have the most nutritional value.
What are the benefits of nettle?
Nettle is a plant with extraordinary health benefits. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, magnesium, and calcium. Thanks to this, it supports the immune system, improves the condition of the skin, hair, and nails, and also has anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects on the body.
Additionally, nettle supports the regulation of blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for people with diabetes. Its antioxidant properties help fight free radicals, slowing the ageing process. Nettle also supports the body's detoxification as it positively affects the functioning of the liver and kidneys.
Nettle soup
Ingredients:
- 200 grams of nettle leaves and stems,
- 1 litre of vegetable broth,
- 1 onion,
- 1 carrot,
- 4 potatoes,
- 1 tablespoon of butter,
- 1 tablespoon of flour,
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream,
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice,
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
- Pour boiling water over the nettle, drain, and chop it.
- Grate the carrot, peel and dice the potatoes, and finely chop the onion.
- Sauté the onion in melted butter, then add the flour and mix thoroughly.
- Add the chopped nettle, grated carrot, and diced potatoes to the pot with the onion and flour. Sauté briefly, then pour in the vegetable broth.
- Cook the soup for about 25 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
- In a cup, mix the sour cream with a portion of the soup, then pour it into the boiling soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
The nettle soup can be cooked without potatoes and served with hard-boiled eggs. It also looks lovely when blended into a creamy soup.
