Nettles with polenta

Nettle Sauté with Polenta and Fried Egg: A Spring Delicacy

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Nettles, often overlooked in modern cooking, are a treasure of nature, rich in nutrients and with a distinctive taste. This simple and delicious dish, sautéed nettles with polenta and a fried egg, combines tradition with health, making it an excellent choice for a light, vitamin-packed meal. Over time, nettles have been used in various cultures as both a medicinal and culinary ingredient, possessing anti-inflammatory and nutritional properties.

Ingredients

- One bucket (approximately 500 g) of fresh nettles
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (you can use olive oil for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 head of garlic (preferably fresh)
- 1-2 cubes of Delikat (or another preferred seasoning, to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Water (enough to cover the nettles)
- 4 fresh eggs (for serving)
- Polenta (for serving)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Cleaning the Nettles:
Start by washing the nettles well. Choose the youngest and most tender leaves, avoiding the thicker stems. Rinse them under cold running water, ensuring you remove any impurities or insects.

2. Boiling the Nettles:
In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the nettles. Boil them for about 20 minutes, until they become soft and change to a vibrant green color. This step not only makes them edible but also helps eliminate potential irritants.

3. Removing and Chopping the Nettles:
After boiling, use a slotted spoon to remove the nettles and place them in a colander to drain well. Once they have cooled slightly, chop them finely. This step will allow the nettles to integrate better into the dish.

4. Mixing with Flour:
In a bowl, combine the chopped nettles with the two tablespoons of flour. Mix well, being careful to avoid lumps. The flour will help bind the ingredients and add extra texture.

5. Cooking the Nettles:
In the same pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the nettle and flour mixture, then pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reaches a pleasant puree-like consistency. Near the end, add the finely chopped garlic, Delikat, and salt to taste. Taste the dish and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

6. Preparing the Polenta:
While the nettles are cooking, you can prepare the polenta. Boil salted water in a pot, then gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the polenta becomes creamy and pulls away from the sides of the pot.

7. Preparing the Eggs:
Meanwhile, you can fry the eggs. Heat a little oil in a pan and crack the eggs, frying them until the whites are set but the yolks remain soft.

8. Serving:
Serve the sautéed nettles alongside a generous portion of polenta and a fried egg on top. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, full of flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To add extra flavor, you can sprinkle some sheep cheese or feta cheese on top. A fresh vegetable salad or pickled celery would perfectly complement this meal. If you wish to experiment, you can also add other greens, such as spinach or dill, for a different taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Nettles are extremely rich in vitamins and minerals, with high contents of vitamin C, iron, and calcium. They help strengthen the immune system and promote bone health. Combining them with polenta and eggs adds healthy proteins and carbohydrates, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How can I keep nettles fresh?
It’s best to consume them immediately after harvesting, but if you need to store them, you can keep them in the fridge in a perforated plastic bag for up to 2-3 days.

- Can I use frozen nettles?
Yes, frozen nettles are a convenient alternative. Just make sure to boil them well before use.

- What other recipes can I try with nettles?
Nettles can also be used in soups, stews, or pies. Their distinctive flavor adds an interesting note to any dish.

Try this recipe for sautéed nettles with polenta and a fried egg and discover the joy of cooking with natural, flavorful, and healthy ingredients. Enjoy your meal!