Nettle Soup
Embrace the Spring with Delicious Nettle Soup!
Foraging for food is a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy the freshest ingredients. And what better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than with a vibrant and nourishing bowl of Nettle Soup? Often considered a weed, the humble nettle is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a surprisingly healthy and delicious addition to your diet. Don’t let the sting put you off – once cooked, nettles lose their sting and transform into a wonderfully earthy and flavourful ingredient.
This Nettle Soup recipe is a classic British comfort food, perfect as a starter, light lunch, or even a satisfying dinner. It’s surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. The result is a creamy, comforting soup that’s both good for you and incredibly tasty. We’ve kept it simple, allowing the natural flavour of the nettles to shine through. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique version!
Why You’ll Love This Nettle Soup:
- Nutrient-Rich: Nettles are a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants.
- Foraged Goodness: Connect with nature and enjoy the benefits of freshly foraged ingredients.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is quick and simple, perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, lunch, or dinner.
- Comforting & Delicious: A creamy, earthy soup that’s sure to warm you up.
Tips for Foraging Nettles:
- Wear Gloves: Always wear gloves when handling nettles to avoid being stung.
- Choose Young Leaves: The youngest, brightest green leaves are the most tender and flavorful.
- Avoid Polluted Areas: Forage for nettles away from roads and areas that may be contaminated.
- Wash Thoroughly: Wash the nettles thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Are nettles safe to eat?
A: Yes, nettles are perfectly safe to eat once cooked. Cooking neutralizes the stinging compounds.
Q: Can I use frozen nettles?
A: Yes, you can! Frozen nettles work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the soup.
Q: What if I don’t have cream?
A: You can substitute the cream with milk, coconut milk, or a dollop of yogurt for a lighter version.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
A: Absolutely! Leeks, potatoes, and other root vegetables would all be delicious additions.
Q: How long does it take to forage for nettles?
A: It depends on your location and how many nettles you need, but generally, 20-30 minutes should be sufficient.
So, get out there, embrace the spring, and enjoy a bowl of this wonderfully nourishing Nettle Soup!
Nettle Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Olive oil Plus extra for drizzling
- 1 Onion Chopped
- 1 Carrot Diced
- 3 cloves Garlic Finely chopped, or a handful of ramson plants
- 1 Floury potato Maris Piper or similar, peeled and chopped
- 1 liter Vegetable stock
- 200 grams Nettle leaves Freshly picked, washed
- 100 ml Cream
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrot, garlic (or ramson), and potato. Cook for 10 minutes, until softened.
- Add the stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the potato is tender.
- Add the nettle leaves and simmer for 1 minute, until wilted.
- Blend the soup until smooth.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the cream.
- Serve drizzled with extra oil and with warm crusty bread.
Share this:
Discover more from Resoupies
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
