Nettle puree with polenta

Nettle puree with polenta – a healthy and nourishing delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a world where healthy eating is becoming increasingly important, nettle puree with polenta is an excellent choice, combining tradition with fresh ingredients from nature. This simple and quick recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also add a splash of greenery to your plate, perfect for vegetarians or those looking to try something new.

Nettles, often underestimated, are rich in vitamins A, C, K, iron, and antioxidants, making them an ideal ingredient for a healthy meal. Additionally, polenta is a staple food that brings a touch of comfort to every meal. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients:
- 300 g fresh nettles, carefully picked
- 1 medium carrot
- 3-4 spring onions
- 1 egg
- 200 g cornmeal
- Water (for boiling)
- Salt (optional, to taste)

Step 1: Washing the nettles
The first step is to ensure the nettles are clean. Wash them well under a stream of cold water, removing any traces of dirt or impurities. This is essential, as nettles often grow in damp soil and may contain sand.

Step 2: Boiling the nettles
In a large pot, add plenty of water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the nettles and let them boil for about 2-3 minutes. This step will not only soften the nettles but also remove their slightly bitter taste.

Step 3: Preparing the vegetables
While the nettles are boiling, you can prepare the carrot and onion. Grate the carrot on a fine grater and chop the spring onion finely so that it integrates easily into your puree. The flavors will combine perfectly!

Step 4: Mixing the ingredients
After the nettles have boiled, drain them well and add them to the same pot with the carrot and onion. Mix everything well and let it simmer over medium heat for 30-40 minutes. This cooking time will allow the flavors to develop and combine wonderfully.

Step 5: Boiling the egg
In another pot, bring water to a boil and add the egg. Boil it for 8-10 minutes, then cool it under a stream of cold water. Once cooled, separate the yolk from the white and keep only the yolk to add to the puree.

Step 6: Mashing the puree
After the nettle mixture has boiled, transfer it to a blender or use a manual masher to puree it until you achieve a smooth texture. Add the egg yolk and, if desired, a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. You can also use a splash of olive oil to add a note of creaminess.

Step 7: Preparing the polenta
In another pot, add water and bring it to a boil. When the water is boiling, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it boil for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently. The polenta should be soft and creamy.

Step 8: Serving
To serve, place a generous portion of nettle puree on a plate and alongside a portion of polenta. If you have picky eaters at the table, encourage them to taste the combination, explaining how healthy nettles are. You can also add some toasted croutons on top for a touch of crunchy texture!

Practical tips:
- If the nettles are too bitter for your taste, you can add a little lemon juice after mashing to balance the flavor.
- For a protein-rich variant, you can also add tofu or goat cheese to the puree.
- The polenta can be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge; just reheat it before serving.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen nettles? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before use.
- How can I store leftover puree? You can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days, and for a longer duration, freeze it.
- What other dishes can it be combined with? Nettle puree pairs wonderfully with cottage cheese or as a side dish with grilled meat.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. It is a filling dish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

In conclusion, nettle puree with polenta is not just a delicious dish but also an excellent way to introduce green vegetables into your family’s diet. I encourage you to try this recipe and adapt it to your tastes, turning it into a family meal favorite. Enjoy!