How to Make a Yummy Nettle Soup
The Power of Nettles in Spring
The first plants to emerge in spring are nettles and dandelions—both true powerhouses of nutrition and health benefits. Today, we’ll focus on one delicious way to incorporate nettles into your diet: nettles soup.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore the benefits of this often-overlooked superfood.
A Fun Fact About Nettles
Did you know that the sting of the nettle actually improves circulation and lymph flow in the joints? Historically, nettles have been used as wraps for joint pain relief. Even Roman soldiers rubbed their bodies with nettles to keep warm in the cold. Amazing, right?
Why Nettles Are a Superfood
Nettles are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a must-have for a healthy diet.
Key Nutrients in Nettles:
Vitamin A – Supports vision, immune function, and cell growth.
Vitamin C – Boosts immunity, supports skin health, and aids in wound healing.
Vitamin K – Essential for blood clotting and bone strength.
Calcium – Strengthens bones, muscles, and nerves.
Iron – Helps produce hemoglobin, preventing anemia.
Magnesium – Supports muscle and nerve function, blood pressure regulation, and DNA synthesis.
Polyphenols – Act as antioxidants, protecting against inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and oxidative stress.
For a plant that most people avoid, nettles offer astounding health benefits!
Nettles in Ayurveda
Ayurveda examines food based on its taste and qualities. The six Ayurvedic tastes influence the doshas, either pacifying or aggravating them.
Nettles have a bitter, astringent, and salty taste:
✔ Balances Pitta & Kapha – The bitter and astringent qualities reduce excess heat and heaviness.
✔ Balances Vata – The salty taste provides grounding and nourishment.
Qualities of Nettles in Ayurveda:
Hot – Due to the sting of the acid-filled hairs, nettles generate warmth.
Light & Dry – Helps balance Kapha (heaviness) and Pitta’s oily nature while warming Vata.
This makes nettles an excellent choice for overall balance and a perfect ingredient for spring cleansing!
How to Use Nettles in Cooking
Nettles can be used both fresh and dried:
Dried – Sprinkle into soups and stews for added nutrients.
Fresh – Use in soups, stir-fries, or pair with potatoes, sweet potatoes, or squash.
Delicious & Easy Nettle Soup Recipe
Final Thoughts
Don’t let the sting of nettles scare you away from incorporating this nutrient-dense superfood into your diet. This delicious nettles soup is a simple way to nourish your body, support digestion, and balance the doshas.
So why not give it a try? Your taste buds and your body will thank you!
