Nettle cream soup

Nettle Cream Soup: A Green Delicacy Full of Nutrients

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of delicate green flavors! Today, I invite you to discover a recipe that will not only enrich your meals with an amazing taste but will also bring a healthy dose of vitamins. I will prepare a nettle cream soup with you, a simple yet flavorful recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe History

Nettles have been appreciated throughout history not only for their distinct taste but also for their extraordinary nutritional properties. These wild plants, often considered a neglected ingredient, have been used in human nutrition and traditional medicine for centuries. Nettle cream soup is a modern reinterpretation of old recipes, transforming humble ingredients into sophisticated and delicious dishes.

Necessary Ingredients

To make this nettle cream soup, you will need the following ingredients:

- 100 g fresh nettles
- 1 small onion
- 2-3 green onions
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 2 medium potatoes
- 150 ml liquid cream
- 1 small galangal root
- Salt, to taste
- Water from boiling the nettles

Useful Tips About Ingredients

1. Nettles: Make sure to use fresh nettles, which you can either pick yourself or buy from the market. Wear gloves when handling them, as they sting. Wash them well to remove impurities.

2. Galangal: This is a special ingredient that adds a subtle flavor and a slightly spicy taste. If you can't find galangal, you can use ginger, but the flavor will be different.

3. Onion: White onion adds a sweet taste, while green onion brings a fresh note. Use both for a complex flavor profile.

4. Cream: Choose a quality liquid cream with a minimum fat content of 20% to achieve a creamy soup.

Preparing the Nettle Cream Soup

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let's start cooking!

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a medium pot, add the tablespoon of butter and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped small onion and green onions. Let them sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and aromatic. Do not let them brown; we want to keep the delicate flavors.

2. Add the nettles: After the onion has sautéed, add the well-washed and blanched nettles. Blanching the nettles helps to remove the sting and makes them easier to digest. Mix everything well and let the nettles soften for 2-3 minutes.

3. Potatoes and galangal: Peel and cut the potatoes into small cubes for even cooking. Add them to the pot along with the galangal root, sliced thinly. These will add a unique flavor and rich taste to the soup.

4. Boiling: Pour the water from boiling the nettles into the pot until all the ingredients are covered. Add a teaspoon of salt to draw out the flavors from the vegetables. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't boil too hard.

5. Blending the vegetables: Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the galangal root. Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually add boiling water until you reach the desired consistency.

6. Finalizing: Add the liquid cream to the soup and mix well. The flavor will become richer and creamier. Season to taste with salt and, if desired, a little freshly ground pepper.

7. Serving: Serve the nettle cream soup hot, garnished with a few freshly chopped green onion sprigs or crispy croutons for added texture. A sprinkle of feta cheese or grated parmesan on top can add a delightful touch.

Variations and Combinations

This nettle cream soup can be customized in many ways. You can add a few spinach or parsley leaves for an even richer flavor. Also, if you want to experiment, you can replace the nettles with other greens like ramsons or arugula for a different taste.

To complete the meal, this soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of garlic toast or a fresh salad. A shot of pálinka or a glass of dry white wine will add elegance to the meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Nettles are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. They contribute to strengthening the immune system, promoting bone health, and detoxifying the body. Nettle cream soup is an excellent choice for a light and healthy meal, perfect for spring when nettles are in abundance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen nettles? Yes, frozen nettles can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using them in the recipe.

2. How can I make the soup spicier? Add a pinch of ground chili pepper or a few slices of fresh chili pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables for a spicy flavor.

3. Can the soup be stored? Yes, nettle cream soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It is recommended to reheat it before serving again.

4. What else can I add to the soup? You can experiment with different vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to add more layers of flavor.

Now that you have discovered all the secrets of this delicious nettle cream soup recipe, I encourage you to try it and enjoy its taste and benefits. It is a perfect choice for a comforting dinner or a healthy lunch. Enjoy your meal!