Nettle soup

Nettle soup is a traditional dish that brings back childhood memories, authentic flavors, and a wealth of nutrients. With a history spanning generations, this soup has often been made from simple yet flavorful ingredients and is appreciated not only for its comforting taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Nettles, considered superfoods due to their high vitamin and mineral content, are perfectly integrated into a delicious and healthy soup. I invite you to discover the steps to transform these green leaves into a plate full of goodness.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 3 liters of water
- 2-3 handfuls of young nettles (only the tops)
- 2 handfuls of rice
- 2 medium onions
- 1 can of tomatoes in their own juice (about 400g)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Vegeta or other seasoning, optional
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: The first step is to deal with the nettles. Make sure to choose only young nettles, as they have a more pleasant taste and are more tender. Wear gloves to avoid stings. Wash the nettles very well under cold water to remove any impurities. Once cleaned, chop them finely or, if you prefer, you can tear them by hand.

2. Boiling the water: Place a large pot on the heat and pour in the 3 liters of water. Let the water reach a boiling point.

3. Preparing the vegetable base: In a separate pot, add the oil and sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat. Let it become translucent, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

4. Adding the tomatoes: Once the onion is ready, add the tomato paste and the chopped canned tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer on low heat, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.

5. Adding the nettles and rice: When the water begins to boil, add the nettles and washed rice. Let them boil together for 5 minutes, stirring gently. This step is essential, as the rice will absorb the flavors from the soup, and the nettles will become tender.

6. Finalizing the soup: After the nettles and rice have boiled for 5 minutes, pour the onion, tomato paste, and tomato mixture into the pot with water. Season with salt and, if desired, add Vegeta. Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.

7. Serving: The nettle soup is now ready! You can serve it hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top, which will add creaminess and balance the slightly bitter taste of the nettles. If you are observing a fast, the soup is delicious even without sour cream.

Useful tips:

- Choosing nettles: Buy nettles from reliable sources or gather them from clean areas. Avoid nettles near roads or in polluted areas.
- Vegan option: For a completely vegan soup, omit the sour cream and use your favorite spices for added flavor.
- Additions: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to enrich the soup.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, keep the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can stay good for 2-3 days.

Nutritional benefits:

Nettle soup is an excellent nutritional choice. Nettles are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and antioxidants. A serving of nettle soup can help strengthen the immune system, improve bone health, and detoxify the body. It is also a low-calorie option, ideal for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen nettles? Yes, frozen nettles are a good alternative. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the soup.

2. What else can I add to the soup? You can experiment with various herbs, such as dill or parsley, to add extra flavor.

3. How can I turn this soup into a main dish? You can add cubes of tofu or cooked meat, such as chicken, to turn the soup into a hearty main dish.

4. Is this soup suitable for children? Yes, it is a healthy choice for children, but make sure to adjust the salt and seasoning levels to their taste.

Personal stories:

I remember the first time I made this soup. I was hesitant at first, recalling childhood memories when my dad would feed nettles to the pigs. However, curiosity won, and the result was surprising – a soup full of flavors that made me return to nettle meals. This recipe not only offers a wonderful taste but also a connection to our culinary traditions.

So, I encourage you to venture into making this nettle soup! It is simple, quick, and healthy, perfect for chilly days or for moments when you want to savor a plate of goodness. Enjoy your meal!