Nettle cream soup with ramsons

Nettle and Wild Garlic Cream Soup - A Springtime Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

On a warm spring day, when nature comes alive, there is no better choice than a nettle and wild garlic cream soup. This recipe is not just a delight for your taste buds but also a true elixir of health. With its vibrant green color, this soup brings not only flavor to the table but also an explosion of nutrients, perfect for energizing you!

Let’s embark together on the culinary journey of nettle and wild garlic cream soup, a simple and delicious recipe that combines tradition with a touch of innovation.

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh nettles
- 6-7 wild garlic leaves (for an intense flavor, choose the freshest leaves)
- 1 medium potato (helps with creaminess)
- 1 parsley root (adds a slightly sweet taste)
- 1 onion (for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons oil (choose a quality olive oil)
- 1.5 liters water (to boil the ingredients)
- 1 pinch of baking soda (to maintain the vibrant green color of the nettles)
- Salt, to taste

Necessary Utensils

- A large pot for boiling
- Another vessel for blanching the nettles
- A blender (or an immersion blender)
- A wooden spatula
- A knife and a cutting board
- A strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Nettles
Start by selecting only the leaves and tops of the nettles, ensuring you get the most tender parts. Wash them thoroughly in 3-4 waters to remove sand and impurities. Be careful, nettles can be prickly, so wear gloves if necessary.

2. Chopping the Ingredients
Wash the wild garlic and chop it finely. Peel the onion and cut it into small pieces. Peel the potato and parsley root, cutting them into small cubes for even cooking.

3. Boiling the Potato and Parsley Root
In a large pot, add water, the potato and parsley cubes, along with a handful of salt. Boil for about 15 minutes until they become soft.

4. Blanching the Nettles
In another vessel, bring water to a boil with a little salt and a pinch of baking soda. When the water starts to boil, add the nettles and blanch for 3-4 minutes. This step is essential as the baking soda helps maintain the intense green color of the nettles.

5. Sautéing the Onion and Wild Garlic
Meanwhile, in a pan, add the oil and sauté the onion and wild garlic over medium heat, stirring constantly until the onion becomes translucent.

6. Blending the Ingredients
After the potato and parsley root are cooked, drain them and add them to the blender along with the blanched nettles. Blend the ingredients on low speed, then gradually increase the speed until you achieve a smooth and homogeneous cream.

7. Adjusting the Consistency
If you desire a thinner soup, gradually add the nettle water until you reach the desired consistency. Remember, nettle water is full of nutrients and can be enjoyed as a delicious tea!

8. Serving
Serve the nettle and wild garlic cream soup warm, alongside toasted bread or wild garlic-flavored croutons. To make the croutons, cut the bread into cubes, fry them in oil flavored with wild garlic, and then bake them to dry. This detail will add a crunchy texture and an unmistakable flavor.

Tips and Tricks

- Caring for Nettles: Choose fresh nettles during their growing season. They are the most nutrient-rich and have the best flavor.
- Baking Soda: This will not alter the taste but will help maintain the color of the nettles, having a visible impact on the final appearance of the soup.
- Variations: You can add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Additionally, a touch of lemon or a sprinkle of nutmeg adds a special flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Nettles are extremely rich in vitamins A, C, K, iron, and calcium, while wild garlic contains antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system. This soup will not only delight your senses but will also provide a nutritional boost, making it ideal for a healthy diet!

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen nettles?
Yes, but the taste and texture will be different. Fresh nettles are always preferable for this type of recipe.

- What can I use instead of wild garlic?
If you can't find wild garlic, you can use green garlic or spring onions, although the taste will be different.

- How can I store leftover soup?
Keep the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or you can freeze it for later use.

Pairing Suggestions

This nettle and wild garlic cream soup pairs perfectly with a spring salad or a sandwich with goat cheese and fresh vegetables. You can accompany the meal with a glass of dry white wine or a herbal tea.

Conclusion

This nettle and wild garlic cream soup is an excellent choice for those who love cooking and want to bring a bit of spring charm to their table. With every spoonful, you will not only taste the delicious flavor but also the health benefits it brings. So don’t hesitate, embrace nature and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!