Sour nettle soup

Sour Nettle Soup – A Spring Delicacy

If you want to bring spring to your plate, there is no better recipe than sour nettle soup. This soup is a true culinary treasure, full of flavors and nutritional benefits. Nettles, these invaluable plants, are not only delicious but also very healthy, being rich in vitamins and minerals. So, let's begin this culinary journey!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

- 1 bunch of fresh nettles (about 200-300 g)
- 2 pork tongues (or beef, for an alternative version)
- 3-4 handfuls of rice (about 150 g)
- 250 ml yogurt (you can use Greek yogurt for a creamier texture)
- A few green onion tops
- Juice from 1-2 lemons or 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Nettles
Start by washing the nettles thoroughly to remove any impurities. Use gloves to avoid stings. Blanch them in salted water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold running water. This step not only removes the stings but also preserves the vibrant green color of the nettles.

2. Boiling the Pork Tongue
If you haven't cooked pork tongue before, you should know that it requires a longer boiling time to become tender. You can boil 2-3 pork tongues at once and store them in the freezer for later use – it's a great trick to save time in the kitchen.

3. Cooking the Rice
In a large pot, add 4 liters of water and a tablespoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the rice. Cook it until it's almost done (about 10-12 minutes). After that, add the finely chopped green onion tops and continue to simmer on low heat.

4. Adding the Nettles
Chop the blanched nettles into small pieces and add them to the pot with rice. Then, add the diced pork tongue. Mix the ingredients well.

5. Seasoning the Soup
Adjust the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Now it's time to add the yogurt, which will provide a creamy texture and refined flavor. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

6. Adding Acidity
Finally, add the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, depending on your preference. This step will enhance the flavors and give the soup a delicious tangy taste.

Practical Tips

- Freezing Cooking Water
Don't forget to save the water in which you boiled the pork tongue! It is full of flavors and can be used for cream soups or sauces.

- Recipe Variations
This soup can be easily adapted. Replace the pork tongue with lamb or goose feet for a different flavor. You can also add sorrel or Swiss chard to diversify the taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Nettles are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Consuming nettles is associated with a range of benefits, including improving immune system health and reducing inflammation. So, this soup is not only tasty but also very healthy!

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken or turkey.

- What can I use instead of yogurt?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can omit the yogurt or use a plant-based alternative.

Serving

Serve the soup hot, garnished with a little yogurt on top and a few fresh nettle leaves for an attractive look. This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons.

Conclusion

So, the next time you have the chance to gather fresh nettles, don't hesitate to try this delicious sour soup. It's simple, healthy, and perfect for paying tribute to spring. Enjoy!