Scandinavian Nettle Soup
Nettles are a popular Scandinavian soup ingredient. They are wonderfully mild and flavorful!
1-2 Tbsp. butter 1 Tbsp. mild onion, chopped
1 small clove garlic, minced/pressed or 1 small ramp bulb and leaves
¼ c. diced celery
4-5 oz. nettles, rough-chopped (WEAR RUBBER GLOVES)
Note: supplement with a little spinach, chard, or other greens, if needed
1 c. small-diced potatoes, peeled
2 cups vegetable stock
¼ c. cream or plain yogurt
Sauté onion, garlic or ramps, and celery 1-2 min. in the butter. Add nettles; sauté until soft (about 10+ min).
Combine nettle mixture with potatoes, and vegetable stock in a pot and simmer on low for about 15 minutes, until the potatoes are soft. Add the cream and blend in a blender or food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variation: When I don't have a potato on hand, I substitute with 1/2 c. cooked brown rice. If you have them on hand, a few snips of chives are delicious too. Another yummy addition- asparagus. Simply cut a few pre-steamed stalks into 1" pieces, and add to the soup after blending.
Recipe created or adapted by Liz Talley, Urban Graze
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