Nettle stew

Nettle Stew

If you are looking for a simple, healthy, and flavorful recipe, nettle stew is the perfect choice! This traditional recipe, rich in nutrients, will take you back to childhood memories when healthy food was the norm. Nettles, full of vitamins and minerals, are a true treasure of nature. Here’s how you can prepare this delicacy step by step!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh nettles
- 20 g flour
- 2-3 green onions or 1 small onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- salt, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- 200 ml water (optional, from the water in which the nettles were boiled)

Preparing the nettle stew:

1. Washing the nettles: Start by washing the nettles thoroughly under cold running water. It is essential to remove any impurities, sand, or insects. You can use a large strainer to facilitate this process.

2. Boiling the nettles: Put the nettles in a pot of boiling water and add a little salt. Boil them for 1-2 minutes. This step not only removes any bitter taste but also improves the texture, making them easier to handle. If you wish, you can keep the water in which the nettles were boiled, as it is rich in nutrients and has beneficial effects on health, including for hair and detoxification.

3. Draining the nettles: After boiling, drain the nettles well. You can use a strainer or simply pour the nettles into a colander. Make sure as little water as possible remains.

4. Sautéing the green onions: In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped green onions or onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!

5. Adding the flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and mix well with a wooden spoon. It is important that the flour does not color. This will help thicken the stew.

6. Incorporating the liquid: Gradually pour half a glass of the water in which the nettles were boiled (or fresh water if you didn’t keep it) into the pan, stirring constantly. This step will prevent lumps of flour from forming.

7. Adding the nettles: Now, add the drained nettles to the pan and mix well. Leave the mixture on the heat for a few minutes until the liquid reduces and a thick stew forms.

8. Blending: Use a blender to puree the stew, achieving a smooth texture. If you prefer a more rustic consistency, you can leave some whole nettle pieces for a more interesting look.

9. Adding the garlic: Peel the two cloves of garlic and grate them. Add them to the stew and mix well. Let the stew simmer for another 2 minutes so the flavors combine perfectly.

10. Serving: Serve the nettle stew warm, with a spoonful of sour cream or a little grated horseradish on top for extra flavor. You can accompany this dish with warm polenta, which will perfectly complement the taste of the meal.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to add more flavor, you can include some spinach leaves, which combine perfectly with nettles.
- Instead of garlic, you can experiment with some spices like paprika or pepper to give a different taste.
- The nettle stew can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor will intensify.

Nutritional benefits:
Nettles are rich in vitamins A, C, K, iron, and calcium. They contribute to improving bone health, skin, and the immune system. Consuming nettles can help detoxify the body and reduce inflammation.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen nettles? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- What other vegetables can I add to the nettle stew? Grated carrots or zucchini are excellent options.
- How can I make the nettle stew spicier? You can add a little chili pepper or spicy seasonings.

Ideal pairings:
Nettle stew pairs perfectly with warm polenta or fresh bread. For a complete meal, you can add a boiled egg or a chicken roast alongside. Additionally, a cold drink, such as mint tea, will perfectly complement this healthy and delicious meal.

In conclusion, nettle stew is not just a traditional dish, but also a fantastic way to enjoy the natural taste of fresh ingredients. Enjoy your meal!