Nettle soup with sour cream

Nettle Soup with Sour Cream - A Vitality-Packed Delicacy

Nettle soup with sour cream is a traditional dish that not only delights our taste buds but also brings a multitude of nutritional benefits. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for spring when nettles are fresh and full of vitamins. Additionally, it is an excellent way to transform a plant often considered 'unwanted' into a culinary delight.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Necessary Ingredients

- 3 bunches of fresh nettles (approximately 300-400 g)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1 large onion
- 200 g smoked meat (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 eggs
- 200 g sour cream
- 500 ml cabbage juice
- Fresh lovage (or dried, but fresh is ideal)
- 1 teaspoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Necessary Utensils

- A large pot for boiling
- Frying pan
- Grater
- Bowl
- Wooden spatula

Step by Step - Your Guide to Perfect Soup

Step 1: Preparing the Smoked Meat

Start by placing the portioned smoked meat in a large pot with cold water. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 45 minutes. This will add a deep and rich flavor to your soup. If you prefer not to use smoked meat, you can skip this step, but keep in mind that the flavor will be different.

Step 2: Cleaning and Grating the Vegetables

In the meantime, clean the vegetables. Grate the carrot and parsley root, leaving the onion whole. The carrot will add a natural sweetness to the soup, while the parsley will contribute extra flavor.

Step 3: Cooking the Vegetables

In a frying pan, melt a teaspoon of butter over medium heat. Add the grated carrot and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes slightly soft. Then, add the grated vegetables to the pot with the smoked meat and enough water to cover the ingredients. Let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Preparing the Nettles

Nettles are the star plant of this dish! Wash them very well in several waters to remove sand and impurities. Then, blanch them in salted water with a teaspoon of lemon juice for 3-4 minutes. This step will not only soften them but also preserve the vibrant color of the nettles. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold running water. Cut off the large stems, leaving the smaller ones intact, then chop them coarsely.

Step 5: Combining the Ingredients

After the vegetables in the pot have cooked, add the chopped nettles and let them simmer together for about 15 minutes. This will allow the nettles to release their flavor and nutritional benefits into the soup.

Step 6: Egg and Sour Cream Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sour cream until you achieve a smooth mixture. It is important to add a ladle of soup to the egg and sour cream mixture to temper the eggs so that they do not coagulate when added to the soup.

Step 7: Finishing the Soup

After you have turned off the heat, pour the egg and sour cream mixture into the soup, stirring continuously to achieve a creamy texture. Finally, add the chopped lovage and cabbage juice, adjusting the acidity to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Nettle soup with sour cream is delicious served hot alongside a slice of fresh bread. Add a spicy kick by placing a fresh chili pepper on the table. This combination is not only pleasant to the taste but also very healthy.

Nutritional Benefits

Nettles are extremely rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. They contribute to strengthening the immune system and maintaining bone health. The soup is also rich in protein due to the eggs and sour cream, making it a nourishing option for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen nettles? While fresh nettles are ideal, you can use frozen nettles if you do not have access to fresh ones. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the soup.

- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a little cayenne pepper or chili flakes during cooking to enhance the flavor.

- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with potatoes or zucchini, which will make the soup heartier.

Possible Variations

If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can omit the smoked meat and use vegetable broth for a special flavor. Additionally, you can add some strips of tofu for extra protein.

Conclusion

Nettle soup with sour cream is not only a tasty dish but also a true treasure of nature. This simple recipe will encourage you to explore the richness of fresh ingredients and enjoy the authentic flavors of the season. So, embrace nature and enjoy a healthy serving of energy! Bon appétit!