Cream of Nettle Soup (Vegan) 🌿🍲
Description: Don’t let the thought of stinging nettles deter you; when cooked, they lose their sting and become a nutrient-rich delight, especially when sourced from your own garden, free from pollutants. This soup is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to harness the bounty of springtime greens. Be sure to gather your nettles from a safe location away from traffic fumes for the freshest flavor and optimal health benefits. This vegan rendition of a Scottish classic is perfect for a light lunch or snack, especially during the warmer months.
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | Vegan margarine |
| 2 | White flour |
| 1 | Onion |
| 2 | Garlic cloves |
| 3 | Cups soya milk |
| 2 | Cups water |
| 1 | Bunch nettles |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 91.1
- Fat Content: 2.1g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 63.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 13.4g
- Fiber Content: 1.3g
- Sugar Content: 5.9g
- Protein Content: 4.7g
Instructions:
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Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the vegan margarine and allow it to melt.
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While the margarine is melting, peel and dice the onion, and peel and crush the garlic cloves.
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Once the margarine is melted and hot, add the diced onion and crushed garlic to the pot. Sauté them for a few minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
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Now, it’s time to incorporate the star ingredient: the nettles! Be sure to handle them with care, and add them directly to the pot without chopping or removing the stalks. Stir them gently until they begin to wilt and soften.
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Once the nettles have softened, sprinkle in the white flour, stirring constantly to ensure it’s evenly distributed and forms a roux with the margarine and vegetable mixture.
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Gradually pour in the soya milk and water, or vegetable stock if preferred, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps from forming. The mixture will begin to thicken as it simmers.
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Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and any additional herbs or spices you desire. Traditional options include thyme, parsley, or a pinch of nutmeg for depth of flavor.
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Allow the soup to simmer gently for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Once the soup has finished simmering and the flavors have developed, it’s time to blend it to creamy perfection! You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches, blending until smooth and velvety.
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Once the soup reaches your desired consistency, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Serve the cream of nettle soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut cream, a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, or a crusty slice of homemade bread on the side. Enjoy the nourishing flavors of springtime in every spoonful!
Tips:
- When handling nettles, be sure to wear gloves to avoid any potential stings.
- If you don’t have access to fresh nettles, you can often find them at farmer’s markets or specialty grocery stores.
- This soup can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences; feel free to add in additional vegetables such as potatoes or carrots for added heartiness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer-term storage. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion:
Cream of Nettle Soup is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of spring while reaping the nutritional benefits of this oft-overlooked green. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of this comforting soup to nourish both body and soul. Whether you’re seeking a light lunch, a cozy snack, or simply a taste of Scottish tradition, this vegan-friendly recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates. So don your gloves, gather your nettles, and get ready to savor the taste of springtime in a bowl!
