Nettle soup

Nettle Soup with Noodles – A Vitamin-Packed Delicacy

Nettle soup is one of those traditional recipes that reminds us of the times when fresh and wild ingredients were the norm. These plants, often considered mere "weeds", are rich in vitamins and minerals, and preparing them in a tasty soup is an excellent way to enjoy their nutritional benefits. Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic choice for fasting periods or for those looking to add a health boost to their diet.

Total preparation time: 40-50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 300 g fresh nettles
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 3 tablespoons of homemade vegetable mix (or frozen vegetable mix)
- 4-5 large potatoes
- 1 bunch of fresh lamb's quarters
- Salt, to taste
- 500 ml borscht (adjust according to sourness preference)
- 100 g noodles

Step by step for a perfect nettle soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Rinse the onion and carrot well under cold running water. Chop the onion finely and cut the carrot into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. These aromatic vegetables will form the base of your soup.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Fill a pot with water, about three-quarters full, and add the onion, carrot, and vegetable mix. Bringing the water to a boil will help release the flavors from the vegetables. Let it boil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.

3. Preparing the nettles: Meanwhile, prepare the nettles. Wear gloves to avoid unpleasant stings. Wash the nettles in several cold waters to remove any impurities. Once well washed, add them to the pot.

4. Adding the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Add them to the pot and let them boil until tender, about 15 minutes.

5. The borscht and seasonings: Add the borscht to the pot. You can use homemade borscht for a more authentic taste, but any commercial borscht will work. As is customary, taste the soup and add salt to your preference. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld well.

6. The noodles and lamb's quarters: Finally, add the noodles, which need about 5-8 minutes of boiling, depending on their type. When the noodles are nearly done, add the finely chopped lamb's quarters and let everything boil for a few minutes. The lamb's quarters will add a note of freshness and a slightly sour taste to the soup.

7. Serving: Once all the ingredients are cooked and the flavors have combined perfectly, the nettle soup is ready to serve. You can serve it hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or with a spoonful of sour cream if you're not following a vegan diet.

Helpful tips:
- If you want a richer soup, you can add a bit of olive oil or butter for a more intense flavor.
- Nettle soup can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the taste improves the next day.
- You can experiment by adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, to diversify the recipe.

Nutritional benefits:
Nettles are an excellent source of vitamin C, iron, and calcium. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and are known for their beneficial effects on the immune system. This soup is not only tasty but also a true elixir of health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen nettles? Yes, but fresh nettles are much more flavorful.
- How can I make the soup spicier? You can add a bit of hot pepper or freshly ground pepper.

Delicious combinations:
Nettle soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes. Additionally, a cold drink, such as mint tea or fresh lemonade, will perfectly complement the meal.

This nettle soup recipe is not only a way to improve your health but also an opportunity to savor a dish full of tradition and flavor. Don't hesitate to try it and enjoy every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!