Nettles with rice

Nettles with Rice – A Simple and Delicious Recipe, Full of Health

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a world where we increasingly want to enjoy healthy and flavorful dishes, nettles with rice are an excellent choice. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, being a rich source of vitamins and minerals. With a little guidance, you'll be able to transform these often underestimated wild plants into a delight for your meal.

A bit of history

Nettles have been consumed since ancient times, valued for their nutritional benefits and therapeutic effects. These herbaceous plants have been used in both the kitchen and traditional medicine due to their high content of iron, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. Cooking with nettles is not just a healthy choice, but also a way to reconnect with nature and rediscover authentic flavors.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg fresh nettles
- 300 g rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Approximately 2 liters of water (part of the broth in which the nettles were boiled)

Step-by-step guide

1. Preparing the nettles: Start by cleaning the nettles. It is important to wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Use gloves, as nettles can cause mild skin irritations. After washing, remove the thicker stems and keep only the tender leaves.

2. Blanching the nettles: In a large pot, add about 5 liters of water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add half of the amount of water over the nettles to blanch them. Keep them in the water for 2-3 minutes, then drain well. This step helps reduce the bitter taste and improves the texture of the nettles.

3. Cooking the nettles: In the same pot, add the remaining water and bring it to a boil again. Place the blanched nettles in the pot with water and let them boil for about 5 minutes. Then, remove them and let them cool. If you prefer, you can use a blender to puree them finely, achieving a silkier consistency.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a pan, add the oil and chopped green onion. Sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the pureed nettles and mix well, allowing the flavors to blend for a few minutes.

5. Cooking the rice: In another pot, add 2 cups of the broth in which the nettles were boiled, along with the rinsed and drained rice. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking.

6. Finalizing the dish: Once the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the broth, add the nettle and onion mixture. Sprinkle in the crushed garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let it heat together for a few minutes.

7. Serving: You can serve this simple and healthy dish as is or as a side to various main courses. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature.

Useful tips and tricks

- Choosing nettles: Buy fresh nettles, preferably from organic sources or unpolluted areas. Check that they are not dry or yellowed.
- Whole grain rice option: If you want to add extra fiber and nutrients, you can use brown rice. The cooking time will be longer, so adjust it according to the instructions on the package.
- Enhancing flavor: You can add spices or herbs, such as dill or parsley, to give the dish an even more vibrant taste.
- Serving suggestions: This dish pairs perfectly with yogurt or a fresh seasonal vegetable salad. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can harmoniously complement the meal.

Nutritional information

This dish is ideal for those looking for a balanced diet. Each serving of nettles with rice contains approximately:

- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 4 g

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen nettles?
Yes, you can use frozen nettles. Make sure to thaw them completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the recipe.

2. How can I store leftover nettles?
Store the nettles with rice in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They will last up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

3. What other vegetables can I add?
Besides nettles, you can incorporate spinach, dill, or even zucchini to diversify the textures and flavors.

The nettles with rice recipe is not only simple but also filled with love for nature and health. Try it and enjoy its unique flavors!