stinging nettle recipes

August 31, 2013| deporecipe| 0 Comment

When it comes to nutritious and delicious ingredients, stinging nettle recipes are often overlooked. But this wild edible has some incredible benefits that make it an excellent addition to any meal. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, the stinging nettle - also known as Urtica dioica - is a versatile plant that can be used for a variety of culinary purposes. From soups to teas, this ancient plant has been enjoyed by cultures around the world for centuries.

Stinging nettle may sound intimidating but it’s actually quite easy to work with. All you need is a good pair of gloves and a few simple recipes. Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a hearty main course, there are plenty of delicious stinging nettle recipes that are sure to please. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular options, from simple salads to savory stews.

First, let’s start with some basics. Stinging nettle is available fresh and dried, although the fresh variety is more widely used in recipes. If you’re using fresh nettles, make sure you wear gloves when harvesting and handling them, as they contain stinging hairs that can cause irritation. When preparing the plant, you can remove the stalks and leaves, as only the tender tips are used in cooking.

Next, let’s look at some of the most popular stinging nettle recipes. One of the easiest dishes to make is a stinging nettle soup. Simply sauté onions and garlic in a pan and then add stock, potatoes, and stinging nettle. Simmer for about 20 minutes and purée the mixture until it’s smooth. For a rich flavor, you can add cream or butter, along with fresh herbs like parsley and chives.

If you’re looking for a light side dish, try steamed stinging nettle. Simply blanch the leaves in boiling water for a few minutes, drain them, and then season with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as oregano, rosemary, thyme, or chili flakes, for extra flavor.

For a heartier meal, try a stinging nettle risotto. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pan. Then add Arborio rice and cook until it’s slightly browned. Add dry white wine and vegetable stock, and stir in stinging nettle leaves. Simmer for 15 minutes and finish with Parmesan cheese and butter.

Finally, you can even use stinging nettle in desserts. Try making a nettle and lemon cake by combining ground almonds, sugar, and eggs with finely chopped stinging nettle leaves. Bake the cake in a preheated oven and enjoy it with a dollop of cream or a scoop of ice cream.

As you can see, there are many delicious and nutritious stinging nettle recipes that you can add to your meal plan. From soups and salads to cakes and risottos, you can easily incorporate this ancient plant into your cooking. So next time you’re looking for something new and exciting, why not give stinging nettle a try?

Stinging Nettle Hummus Recipe