Meatballs or nettle pudding

Delicious Nettle Meatballs - A Green Indulgence

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Nettle meatballs, also known as pârjoale, are a traditional recipe that pays tribute to simple yet flavorful ingredients. These green meatballs are not only a culinary delight but also an excellent source of nutrients, as nettles are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. They have been consumed in various forms throughout history, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their healing properties.

Ingredients needed:

- 800 g fresh nettles (about one bag)
- 2-3 eggs
- 2-3 medium onions
- 2-3 slices of bread (preferably whole grain or homemade)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- Salt, to taste
- Spices (pepper, dried dill, or other herbs)
- Flour (for coating the meatballs)
- Oil (for frying)

Step by step: Preparing nettle meatballs

1. Preparing the nettles:
Start by cleaning the nettles. Make sure to wear gloves to avoid stings. After removing the stems and dried leaves, wash the nettles well under cold running water. Then, place them in a pot of boiling water and let them boil for about 3-5 minutes until softened. After boiling, remove the nettles and drain them well. It’s best to squeeze them by hand to remove excess liquid.

2. Grinding the ingredients:
In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the finely chopped onions until they become translucent. This step is essential, as the sautéed onion will add sweetness and flavor to your meatballs. Once the onion is ready, let it cool slightly. Then, use a meat grinder or food processor to mash the nettles together with the sautéed onion. Add the slices of bread (you can soak the bread in water and then squeeze out the excess water before adding) and mix well.

3. Creating the mixture:
In a large bowl, add the nettle and onion mixture, then add the beaten eggs, crushed garlic, salt, and your favorite spices. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. If the mixture is too soft, you can add a little flour to thicken it. Be careful not to add too much flour, as the meatballs will become dense.

4. Forming the meatballs:
Using wet hands, form medium-sized meatballs. Then, coat each meatball in flour, ensuring it is well covered. This will help achieve a crispy crust during frying.

5. Cooking the meatballs:
In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot enough, add the meatballs to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they become golden and crispy. If you prefer a healthier method, you can bake them in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes until golden.

6. Serving:
Serve the meatballs warm, alongside a fresh salad or with garlic yogurt sauce. These meatballs are delicious both hot and cold, making them perfect for a picnic or a quick snack. You can also add them to sandwiches for a unique flavor.

Chef's tip:

For an extra flavor boost, experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, adding them to the nettle mixture. Also, if you like spicy meatballs, you can add a little dried chili or smoked paprika.

Possible variations:

- Cheese meatballs: Add feta cheese or cottage cheese to the nettle mixture for a creamier texture.
- Vegan meatballs: Replace the eggs with soaked flaxseeds (1 tablespoon of flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water) to achieve a similar binding.
- Nettle pudding: If you prefer, you can transform the mixture into a pudding. Place the mixture in a heat-resistant dish and bake it in the oven until it puffs up and forms a golden crust, about 30-35 minutes.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen nettles?
Yes, you can use frozen nettles, but make sure to thaw and squeeze them well before use.

- What other ingredients can I add?
You can add sautéed mushrooms, grated carrots, or zucchini to diversify the texture and flavor of the meatballs.

- How can I store the meatballs?
These meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan.

Nutritional benefits:

Nettles are a superfood, rich in antioxidants, proteins, fiber, and essential minerals. They support the immune system, help detoxify the body, and may contribute to maintaining eye health.

Conclusion:

Nettle meatballs are not only a healthy choice but also an excellent way to bring a touch of greenery to your diet. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these meatballs are a delicacy that will delight your family’s taste buds. I invite you to try them and share this recipe with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!