Nettle puree with garlic

Nettle puree with garlic - a traditional recipe full of flavor and nutrients

Discovering a recipe for nettle puree with garlic can be a true revelation for those who wish to explore the authentic tastes of nature. Nettles, often overlooked, are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, and this dish is an excellent way to incorporate them into your daily diet. With a long history in various cultures, nettles have been used for centuries for both their nutritional and medicinal properties. So, let’s get cooking!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 bags of nettles (about 400 g) or 2 full baskets of fresh nettles
- 1 head of garlic (about 6-8 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Water (about 2 liters)
- 1 medium onion (optional, for a more complex flavor)

Step by step for an exceptional nettle puree:

1. Preparing the nettles:
Start by cleaning the nettles. Wear gloves to avoid stinging. The top parts of the nettles are the tastiest, so only cut the tips. Wash them very well under cold running water. It is important to change the water several times so that the sand settles at the bottom of the basin. Make sure the nettles are clean and ready to be boiled.

2. Boiling the nettles:
Put 2 liters of salted water to boil. When the water starts to boil, add the nettles. Let them boil for about 20 minutes. This process will not only soften them but also help eliminate the bitter taste.

3. Draining the nettles:
After boiling, drain the nettles using a sieve. It is important not to throw away the water they boiled in, as you will use it later. Let the nettles cool a bit, then chop them finely with a knife or put them in a blender. Both methods are effective, but manual chopping retains some of the nettles' texture.

4. Preparing the puree:
In a pan, heat the olive oil. If you choose to add onion, sauté it until golden and soft, then add the crushed or minced garlic. The garlic should become fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.

5. Mixing the ingredients:
Add the chopped nettles to the pan. Sprinkle the flour over the nettles and mix well to combine. If you notice that the puree is too thick, you can add a little of the boiling water. Cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

6. Seasoning:
Adjust the salt to taste. Before turning off the heat, add the remaining crushed garlic to intensify the flavors. The garlic added at the end gives a fresh and vibrant taste to the puree.

7. Serving:
The puree is served cold, alongside a portion of warm polenta. This combination is not only delicious but also very healthy, providing a rich supply of nutrients. You can add a few slices of fresh tomatoes or olives for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Useful tips:
- Nettles are best in their season, spring. Always choose young nettles, as they are more tender and have a sweeter taste.
- Garlic can be adjusted according to preferences. If you are a fan of intense flavor, feel free to add more garlic!
- Flour can be replaced with cornstarch for a gluten-free version.

Nutritional information:
Nettle puree is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. It is low in calories, having about 120 calories per serving, making it a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can frozen nettles be used? Yes, frozen nettles are a good alternative. Make sure to thaw them completely before using.
- What other side dishes can be used? Besides polenta, this puree pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish.

Possible variations:
- Instead of garlic, you can try adding some herbs, such as dill or parsley, to customize the flavor.
- For a creamier puree, you can add a little butter or sour cream at the end.

This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also pay homage to simple and healthy ingredients. Nettle puree with garlic is a perfect way to reconnect with nature and enjoy a meal full of tradition and passion. Savor every bite and enjoy the authenticity!