Nettles

Delicious Boiled Nettle Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Nettles, known for their nutritional properties and distinct taste, are a versatile ingredient in Romanian cuisine. This simple yet refined boiled nettle recipe will provide you with a healthy dish, perfect as a side or as a base for other dishes. I will guide you through each step to achieve the best results.

Ingredients:

- 500 g fresh nettles
- 1 liter water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 2-3 garlic cloves (optional)
- Lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Choosing the nettles: Start by selecting fresh nettles. Choose young, green, and tender leaves, avoiding older or yellowed ones. You can wear gloves to avoid stings.

2. Washing the nettles: Wash the nettles under cold running water, in several rinses, to remove impurities and any insects. This is an essential step, as nettles often grow in damp areas and can accumulate sand.

3. Blanching the nettles: In a pot, bring the water to a boil, then add the nettles. Turn off the heat after about 2-3 minutes. This process will help soften the leaves and reduce their slightly bitter taste.

4. Boiling the nettles: Transfer the blanched nettles to a bowl of warm water to stop the cooking process. Once they have cooled slightly, drain them well. Then, put them back in the pot, add fresh water and salt, and boil for 10-15 minutes. Taste to check if they are ready; the nettles should be tender but not overly soft.

5. Preparing for serving: After the nettles are boiled, drain them well and if desired, you can sauté them in a pan with olive oil and crushed garlic for a few minutes to enhance the flavors. Adding lemon juice at the end will bring an extra freshness.

6. Serving: You can serve the boiled nettles as a side dish alongside meats, or as a filling for pies and tarts. Another delicious option is to serve them with polenta or in soup.

Practical tips:

- Make sure the nettles are fresh; if left too long, they will lose their aroma and nutrients.
- If you want to preserve the nettles for later, you can blanch and freeze them in small portions.
- You can experiment with adding other herbs, such as dill or parsley, to diversify the flavor.

This boiled nettle recipe is not only a healthy choice but also an opportunity to connect with nature and bring a traditional ingredient to your meals. Dare to try and enjoy their unique taste!