Nettle and mushroom soup

Nettle and mushroom soup: a spring delicacy

Nettle and mushroom soup is a traditional dish that combines the natural flavors of seasonal ingredients with a comforting texture. This recipe is not only a delicious choice but also a way to benefit from the nutritional advantages of nettles, rich in vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the mushrooms add a special note, with an umami flavor that will transform this soup into a true feast.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 5 hours and 30 minutes
Total time: 6 hours
Number of servings: 6

Basic ingredients:
- 1 green onion
- 1 small dry onion
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 200 g pickled mushrooms
- 1 bowl full of fresh nettles
- 2 tablespoons of rice
- 4-5 tablespoons of homemade tomato juice
- 1 cup of homemade borscht
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sprigs of fresh parsley
- 2 sprigs of fresh lovage
- 2.5 liters of water
- 2 tablespoons of oil

Initial preparations:
1. De-salting the mushrooms: Start by washing the mushrooms well. Then, place them in a bowl of cold water to de-salt. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, changing the water several times. This step is crucial for eliminating excess salt and achieving a balanced flavor.
2. Cleaning the nettles: Choose fresh nettles, avoiding those with woody stems. Wash them well in several waters, then remove the stems. This will ensure that only the tender leaves make it into the soup.
3. Preparing the vegetables: Clean the green onion and slice it into rounds. Finely chop the dry onion, and clean the yellow and red bell peppers of cores and seeds, then dice them. Peel the carrot and cut it into suitable pieces. Wash the parsley, remove the stems, and finely chop.

Cooking the soup:
1. In a large pot, add 2 tablespoons of oil and sauté the green and dry onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent. This step will release the flavors and create a delicious base for the soup.
2. Add the bell peppers and carrot to the pot, mixing well. Continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the de-salted mushrooms, water, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cover with a lid and connect the appliance to the power. Select the 'High' mode and set the time to 5 hours and 30 minutes.

Adding the final ingredients:
1. After 2 hours of cooking, add the well-drained nettles and tomato juice. Gently stir to combine the flavors. This will add a note of acidity and enhance the color of the soup.
2. In the last half hour, add the hot borscht and the rice, which you have washed well beforehand. Taste the soup and adjust with salt or pepper as needed.

Finalizing and serving:
1. Once the cooking time is up, disconnect the appliance. Finely chop the lovage and add it to the hot soup. Cover the pot and let the soup rest for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify.
2. Serve the nettle and mushroom soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A spoonful of sour cream on top will add a touch of creaminess.

Tips and variations:
- If you want a spicier version, add a finely chopped hot pepper during cooking.
- You can replace the rice with quinoa or rice pasta to make the soup gluten-free.
- The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Nutritional benefits:
Nettle and mushroom soup is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Nettles are a good source of vitamins A, C, K, iron, and calcium, while mushrooms provide antioxidants and protein. This soup is low in calories, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen nettles? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding.
- What other vegetables can I add? You can experiment with carrots, celery, or zucchini for a different flavor.
- Can I make the soup without mushrooms? Certainly, you can use fresh or canned mushrooms instead.

This nettle and mushroom soup is more than just a simple dish - it is a celebration of spring and fresh ingredients, offering a comforting and nutritious culinary experience. Enjoy this traditional recipe and savor its rich flavors!