Stinging Nettle Tea: Foraged Herbal Brew

Welcome to the whimsical world of stinging nettles! Yes, you heard that right—those pesky little plants that have a habit of firing back when you try to touch them can actually be quite the culinary delight, minus the sting, of course! Let’s dive into some nettle fun with these delightful recipes that will make your taste buds dance like they’re at a disco!

1. Nettle Soup

Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s not only delicious but also sneaky in its health benefits! With stinging nettles, you’re in for a green surprise!

### Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh stinging nettles, washed and tough stems removed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 potato, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until they’re softened and fragrant.

2. Add the diced potato and vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

3. Add the nettles carefully (they won’t bite you now!) and cook for about 10 minutes until the nettles are tender.

4. Blend the mixture until smooth, adding cream if desired, then season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve hot with a sprinkle of croutons for that extra crunch. Voila, your stinging nettle soup is ready to impress!

6. Nettle Pesto

Who needs basil when you can whip up a vibrant nettle pesto? Perfect for slathering on bread, tossing with pasta, or just eating by the spoonful!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh stinging nettles, washed and stems removed
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (or whatever nuts you have on hand)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a pan, lightly toast the pine nuts until golden.
2. In a food processor, combine the nettles, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. While the food processor is running, slowly add the olive oil until well blended and creamy.
4. Season with salt to taste, and your nettle pesto is ready to rock and roll on any dish it encounters!

There you have it—two fabulous nettle recipes that will make you the star of any kitchen. So, don your chef’s hat, pick those nettles (carefully!), and let the culinary adventure begin!

source: www.pinterest.com