Fine nettle and wild garlic soup

The fine nettle and wild garlic soup is a dish that takes us to spring, to the freshness of nature, and to the joy of consuming seasonal ingredients. This recipe is not just a delicious choice, but also one full of nutritional benefits. Nettles, rich in vitamins and minerals, along with wild garlic, add a boost of flavor and health. Let’s discover together the necessary steps to create a creamy soup full of aromas and colors.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- A deep plate full of fresh nettles (approximately 300 g)
- A bunch of wild garlic (approximately 100 g)
- A bunch of parsley (approximately 50 g)
- A bunch of lovage (approximately 50 g)
- A bunch of dill (approximately 50 g)
- A bunch of green onions (approximately 4-5 stalks)
- 2 liters of water
- 1-2 tablespoons of natural vegetable seasoning (or another preferred spice)
- Salt, to taste
- 2 egg yolks (optional, for a creamier texture)
- 50 ml of milk (optional, for a richer taste)

The story behind the recipe
Nettle and wild garlic soup is a traditional dish, appreciated in many cultures for its nutritional properties. Nettles are often considered a superfood, having anti-inflammatory effects, being rich in iron and vitamin C. Wild garlic, on the other hand, is recognized for its detoxifying effects and for its delicate flavor, similar to garlic but milder. These ingredients are often used in spring dishes, symbolizing the rebirth of nature and health.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the nettles well under a stream of cold water. It is important to remove any impurities. If the nettles are very young, there is no need to remove the stems. Wash the other greens: wild garlic, parsley, lovage, dill, and green onions. All these ingredients will add a fresh taste to your soup.

2. Boiling the nettles:
In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and 1-2 tablespoons of natural vegetable seasoning. Bring the water to a boil, and once it reaches boiling point, add the cleaned nettles. Let them boil for 2-3 minutes until they become tender. This process will help retain the nutrients and maintain the vibrant color of the nettles.

3. Blending:
After the nettles have boiled, remove the pot from the heat and transfer the nettles along with the water they boiled in to a blender. Add half of the amount of water used for boiling. Blend everything until you achieve a fine and creamy consistency. This step is essential for creating a uniform texture for the soup.

4. Adding the greens:
Add the other greens (wild garlic, parsley, lovage, dill, and green onions) chopped finely into the blender. Blend again until all ingredients are well integrated. If you have a more powerful blender, you can blend them all together to achieve a smoother soup.

5. Finalizing the soup:
Put the entire mixture from the blender back into the pot over low heat. Adjust the salt to taste. If you want a richer soup, you can add the two beaten egg yolks and the milk, mixing well to prevent the eggs from coagulating. This will give a velvety texture and a more intense flavor.

6. Serving:
The nettle and wild garlic soup is served hot, ideally accompanied by toasted croutons or a slice of fresh bread. You can decorate the plate with a few fresh wild garlic leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant look.

Variations and useful tips:
- If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version, simply omit the egg yolks and milk. The soup will remain just as tasty and healthy.
- You can also add other spring greens, such as spinach or basil, to experiment with flavors.
- Another trick is to add a little lemon juice before serving to enhance the flavor and provide a pleasant contrast.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen nettles?
Yes, but it is recommended to completely thaw them and drain well before using.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it over low heat, adding a little water to restore its consistency.

3. Is nettle soup suitable for a diet?
Absolutely! It is a low-calorie dish rich in nutrients, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Nutritional benefits:
Nettle and wild garlic soup is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, iron, and calcium, contributing to strengthening the immune system, bone health, and detoxifying the body.

In conclusion, this fine nettle and wild garlic soup is not just a simple recipe, but a true celebration of spring. It is a healthy and flavorful choice, perfect for enjoying on warm days or for bringing a touch of freshness to your meals. So, don’t hesitate to try it and share it with your loved ones!