Nettles with fried polenta.

Nettles with Fried Polenta

Spring brings a wealth of fresh ingredients, and nettles are definitely the stars of this season. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, offering a perfect combination of the fresh green of nettles, the aroma of onion, and the crispy texture of fried polenta. Let’s embark on preparing this savory recipe that will bring a touch of spring to your plate.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 2 kg fresh nettles
- 3 eggs
- 500 g cornmeal
- 1 red onion
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (for polenta)
- Salt, freshly ground pink pepper
- Salt-free vegetable seasoning (optional)
- A pinch of dried tarragon

Preparation of Ingredients

Start by cleaning the nettles. These wonderful plants can be full of sand and dust, so it’s essential to wash them very well. Place them in a large bowl of water and change the water a few times until it remains clear. Nettles are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent ingredient for a healthy diet.

Once you have cleaned the nettles, prepare a large pot of boiling water. This will be used to blanch the nettles. Blanching helps eliminate the characteristic bitterness while preserving essential nutrients.

Cooking the Nettles

After the water has started boiling, add the nettles and let them boil for 2-3 minutes. Then, remove them from the water and place them in a colander to drain excess water. This water can be used to prepare a soup or can be consumed as is, if you can tolerate it.

In a pan, add the 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and sauté the finely chopped red onion until it becomes translucent. The aroma of sautéed onion will add a deep and savory flavor to the dish.

Once the onion is ready, add the drained and chopped nettles (you can also use a food processor to chop them more quickly). Season with salt, freshly ground pink pepper, salt-free vegetable seasoning, and a pinch of dried tarragon. Mix the ingredients well and let them combine.

Baking

Transfer the nettle and onion mixture to an oven-safe pot. Add 2 cups of water (adjusting the amount according to your preference) and 2 tablespoons of coarse cornmeal to bind the mixture. Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the oven for 30 minutes at 180°C. This baking time will allow the nettles to absorb the flavors and become tender.

Preparing the Polenta

Meanwhile, prepare the polenta. Boil 1 liter of water in a pot, adding a tablespoon of butter for extra flavor. When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook the polenta, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes. For firmer polenta, leave it on the heat a little longer.

Once the polenta is ready, transfer it to a dish and let it cool. Once cooled, cut it into thick slices and fry them in a pan with a little oil, one minute on each side, until golden and crispy.

Preparing the Fried Eggs

In the same pan, fry the 3 eggs, being careful to keep the yolk intact. The fried egg will add a creamy texture and extra flavor to the dish.

Serving

To serve, place a bed of nettles with onion on the plate, add a slice of fried polenta on top, and finally, carefully place the fried egg. This combination of textures and flavors will make every bite a true delight.

Suggestions and Variations

This recipe can be adapted according to personal preferences. For example, you can add feta cheese or telemea cheese on top of the nettles for a more intense flavor. Additionally, a spicy tomato sauce can perfectly complement this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What other ingredients can I use instead of nettles?
You can replace nettles with spinach or kale, but you will need to adjust the cooking time.

2. How can I store leftover fried polenta?
If you have leftover polenta, you can store it in the fridge in an airtight container. You can fry it again before serving.

3. Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can omit the fried eggs and you will have a completely vegan, delicious, and healthy dish.

Nutritional Benefits

Nettles are an excellent source of iron, calcium, vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain antioxidants and can contribute to immune system health. Polenta, on the other hand, is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.

This recipe for nettles with fried eggs and polenta is not only a delicious choice for a spring meal but also an excellent way to enjoy seasonal ingredients. Enjoy your meal!