25- Minutes Stinging Nettle Soup -A Simple and Tasty Recipe For All

by Julia
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September 14, 2023

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Dive into a bowl of Stinging Nettle Soup, where the unexpected becomes the unforgettable! This vibrant green elixir transforms the wild, untamed nettles into a silky-smooth concoction, bursting with earthy flavors and a hint of herbal magic. Rich in nutrients and steeped in tradition, each spoonful is a dance of daring and delight. Embrace the unique, cherish the bold, and discover a world of taste that’s as wild and wonderful as nature itself!

Venturing into the world of wild edibles? Stinging nettle soup recipe stands out. Often overlooked, this prickly green garners admiration in gourmet circles. Once cooked, its sting disappears, revealing a rich, earthy flavor.

This soup is more than just a bowl of greens; it’s a journey through nature’s bounty. A blend of hearty vegetables and nettle leaves, each spoonful offers a delicate dance of taste and nutrition.

Dive into this recipe to discover the magic behind this ancient ingredient. Perfect for those chilly nights or when you crave a touch of wilderness in your kitchen.

Join us on this culinary adventure and unlock the secret to this green gem.

What Is Stinging Nettle Soup?

Stinging nettle soup is a traditional dish made from the tender leaves of the stinging nettle plant. Once feared for its painful sting, the nettle becomes a rich, spinach-like green when cooked.

This soup combines nettles with vegetables and broth, resulting in a nutritious and flavorful meal.

With its earthy taste and myriad health benefits, stinging nettle soup is a beloved classic in many European cuisines, offering a unique blend of nature’s bounty and culinary tradition.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Keto Skip the rice. Incorporate more healthy fats by adding heavy cream or coconut milk, and increase protein with extra chicken or turkey.
Paleo Omit rice. Consider sweet potatoes or turnips for heartiness. Swap out regular salt with Himalayan pink or sea salt.
Gluten-Free Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free or make your own. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Whole30 Omit rice. Ensure your chicken broth is compliant without added sugars or non-compliant additives.
Vegetarian Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Vegan Besides using vegetable broth, add coconut milk for creaminess and depth, replacing any dairy or meat ingredients.

Recipe Directions

Boil water with 2 tsp salt. Add nettles for 1-2 minutes. Drain, rinse, and chop.
Sauté onion in olive oil until translucent (~5 minutes).
Add rice, broth, and nettles. Boil, then simmer until rice is tender (~15 minutes).
Puree with an immersion blender. Season with salt and pepper.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

Creamy Delight: Swirl in coconut milk or heavy cream for a silkier texture.
Spiced Touch: Infuse garlic, nutmeg, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a flavor kick.

Add-Ons

Protein Boost: Add diced chicken, tofu, or white beans.
Veggie Mix: Incorporate carrots, celery, or potatoes for added heartiness.
Herbal Aroma: Stir in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil.

Toppings

Crunch Element: Garnish with roasted nuts, croutons, or pumpkin seeds.
Zest: Add a squeeze of lemon or orange for a citrusy lift.
Green Sprinkle: Top with freshly chopped chives or green onions.
Richness: Drizzle with a touch of truffle oil for a gourmet finish.

Can I Make Stinging Nettle Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

After blanching nettles to remove the sting, place them in the slow cooker with the onions, rice, and chicken broth.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Before serving, use an immersion blender to puree and season to taste.

Instant Pot

Use the “Sauté” function to soften the onions in olive oil. Add the blanched nettles, rice, and broth.
Close the lid and set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 15 minutes.
Quick release the pressure, open, then blend and season.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Store-Bought Broth

Convenience: Ideal when you’re short on time.
Variety: Offers multiple choices – chicken, beef, vegetable, organic, low-sodium.
Check Ingredients: Ensure it’s free from unwanted additives, MSG, or excessive sodium.

Homemade Broth

Flavor Depth: Homemade allows for richer, personalized flavor.
Control: You know exactly what’s in it – great for dietary restrictions.
Economical: Make in bulk using kitchen scraps and store for later.

How To Serve ?

Temperature: Serve the soup hot but not scalding. Warm bowls beforehand to keep the soup at an ideal temperature.
Texture: Achieve a velvety consistency using a blender or immersion blender for evenness.
Garnish: Enhance with fresh herbs, a swirl of cream, or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil.
Complements: Accompany with crusty bread, croutons, or a light salad.
Presentation: Use deep bowls to retain heat. Pour slowly to prevent splashing.
Seasoning Check: Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Drink Pairing: Offer with white wine or herbal tea for a harmonious meal.

Perfect Side Dishes

Crusty Bread: Freshly baked, it’s ideal for soaking up the soup’s flavors.
Herb-Infused Flatbreads: Bring aromatic notes that mirror the soup’s herbs.
Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness.
Roasted Vegetables: Offer a contrasting texture and added nutrition.
Quiche or Frittata: Egg-based dishes provide a protein boost and a delightful savory note.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A gooey, warm contrast to the liquid soup.
Garlic or Herb Butter Toast: Adds crunch and an aromatic punch.
Stuffed Mushrooms: A savory bite-sized treat that complements earthy soup tones.

Storage And Make Ahead

Make Ahead: Harvest and blanch the nettles in advance. Store them in the refrigerator after cooling.
Storage: Prepare the soup base and blanched nettles separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup base on the stovetop over low heat. Add the blanched nettles just before serving to retain their vibrant color.
Flavor Enhancement: Adjust seasoning with additional herbs and spices to taste.
Garnish Fresh: Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped chives upon serving for added freshness.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup on the stove until thickened, then toss with pasta.
Rice Enhancer: Mix with cooked rice for a flavorful side.
Casserole Base: Use as a moistening agent for baked dishes.
Soup Variations: Add new ingredients like roasted veggies or proteins for a revamped version.
Bread Dip: Serve with crusty bread as a dipping sauce.
Pie Filling: Make a savory pie using the soup as the filling.
Gravy Alternative: Thicken and use over roasted meats or mashed potatoes.
Freeze for Later: Pour into ice cube trays, freeze, and store for flavor boosters in future dishes.
Smoothie Base: Blend with additional greens for a nutritious smoothie.
Omelette Filling: Add to an omelette for a rich, herby flavor.

TIPS

Proper Handling: Wear gloves when handling stinging nettles to avoid irritation.
Blanching Technique: Blanch nettles in boiling water for a minute to neutralize their sting.
Flavor Pairing: Combine nettles with potatoes, onions, and garlic for a flavorful base.
Texture Enhancement: Blend the soup until smooth for a velvety texture.
Nutritional Boost: Enjoy the soup as a nutritious meal packed with vitamins and minerals from the nettles.