Nettle puree

Nettle puree: a recipe full of flavor and health

In a world where we want to enjoy authentic and healthy tastes, nettle puree becomes an inspired choice. This recipe not only brings a delicious dish to your table but also tells a story about culinary traditions and simple yet extraordinary ingredients. Nettles, often considered a medicinal plant, are packed with vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants. So, let's discover together how we can transform this wonderful plant into a savory puree!

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- One bag (about 300-400 g) of fresh nettles
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 cube of vegetable stock
- 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Necessary utensils:
- Large pot
- Pan
- Slotted spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon

Step by step

1. Preparing the nettles
- Start by washing the nettles in several waters to ensure they are clean. It is important to remove any impurities or insects. Use gloves, as fresh nettles can cause skin irritation.
- Once you have washed the nettles well, put them in a pot with boiling water. Blanching them for 2-3 minutes will make the leaves soft and easier to handle.

2. Boiling the nettles
- After blanching, drain the nettles and chop them finely. This step will allow the flavors to blend better in the puree.
- In the same pot, add more water and boil the nettles for 20 minutes. This will intensify the flavor and help eliminate the slightly bitter taste.

3. Preparing the base
- In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Caramelized onion will add a natural sweetness to the puree.
- Add the tablespoon of flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This will thicken the puree and give it a creamy texture.

4. Adding the vegetable stock
- Dissolve the vegetable stock cube in a cup of hot water. Add this mixture to the pan, stirring well to combine the ingredients. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Combining the ingredients
- Add the boiled and chopped nettles to the pan. Mix everything well and let it simmer together for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Finally, add the crushed garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serving
Nettle puree is delicious served warm, alongside creamy polenta and fried eggs. It adds a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors. You can sprinkle some grated cheese over the eggs for an extra burst of flavor. If you like, you can experiment with different types of cheese, from goat cheese to parmesan, each bringing a unique note.

Useful tips
- Choosing nettles: Select young, green leaves, as these are the most tender and flavorful. Avoid nettles that have flowers or are very mature.
- Variations: For a more complex flavor, you can add spices like nutmeg or sweet paprika during preparation. You can also replace the onion with leeks for a milder taste.
- Storage: If you have leftover puree, you can keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water to restore its texture.

Nutritional benefits
Nettle puree is rich in nutrients. Nettles are an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, iron, and calcium, having important benefits for bone health and the immune system. They also contain antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen nettles? Yes, frozen nettles can be used, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them before adding them to the recipe.
- What other side dishes go well with nettle puree? Besides polenta and eggs, you can also try fish or grilled meat, ensuring a balance of proteins and nutrients.
- Is this puree vegetarian? Yes, nettle puree is completely vegetarian. By adding fried eggs, it becomes a perfect dish for a healthy breakfast or a light dinner.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Nettle puree is not only a simple recipe but also one that will delight your taste buds. Enjoy every bite and share it with your loved ones to bring a touch of nature into your lives!