If nettles are taking over your garden – avoid reaching for the weed killer – instead consider nurturing them a little (yes really!!) and then using them in your recipes in place of other greens, there is the added bonus of saving money from buying your supermarket greens.
Nettles make a tasty addition when used in polenta and pesto but the ultimate recipe for nettles is NETTLE SOUP, this is a pretty simple version, which you can alter according to your taste.
You will need; a large amount of nettles, one potato, one onion, vegetable stock or water, nutmeg and seasoning.
Chop and then sweat an onion in a little oil, roughly cut the potatoes into cubes and add to the softened onions, add the nutmeg, wash the nettles and throw them in the pan, it will be pretty full but they will wilt down. Add some liquid to the pan – about a quarter full should be enough – no need to cover the leaves, bring to the boil and then simmer for 15 minutes. If you wish to, you can liquidize it, season accordingly.
Dip in some thick tasty bread and benefit from the nutritional goodness this ‘weed’ contains.
