Nettles: the green power plant - natural remedies and culinary highlight at the same time

Welcome to our contribution about a fascinating and yet often underestimated plant - the nettle. For many, it is just a weed that causes painful burning on our skin. But the nettle harbors a remarkable potential.

In this article we will take a closer look at the nettle and explain why it is valued not only in naturopathy, but also in the kitchen. From your health advantages to delicious recipes, we will explore the versatile uses of this plant.

Ready to see the nettle in a completely new light? Let us dive into the fascinating world of this inconspicuous plant and let our hidden treasures be surprised. Let's go!

The nettle (Urtica Dioica) is a plant species that occurs in many parts of the world.

Due to its adaptability and robust nature, the nettle has successfully spread over time in many climate zones. It prefers nutrient -rich soils and often grows near human settlements and agricultural areas.

The nettle is estimated in many cultures and has been used for their medical and culinary properties for centuries. It has a long history in traditional medicine and is still used for various health purposes today. In addition, due to her high nutrient content and its versatile taste, she also found her place in the kitchen.

Nettles contain a number of valuable ingredients, including:

1. Vitamins: Nettles are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K. Vitamin A is important for eye health, the immune system and the growth of tissue. Vitamin C supports the immune system, promotes collagen production and acts as antioxidants. Vitamin K plays a role in blood clotting and bone health.
2. Minerals: Nettles contain an abundance of minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Iron is important for blood formation and oxygen transport in the body. Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. Magnesium supports many body functions, including muscle and nerve function. Potassium plays a role in the electrolyte balance.
3. Antioxidants: Nettles contain various antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin C. Antioxidants protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
4. Amino acids: Nettles contain various essential amino acids that the body needs to build proteins and carry out important functions.
5. Secondary plant substances: Nettles contain various phytonutrients such as chlorophyll and betaine.

Nettles can also be a healthy ingredient in smoothies. Together with other green leafy vegetables such as spinach or salad, fruit, yogurt or plant milk as well as optional ingredients such as chia seeds or linseed, you get a nutrient-rich smoothie.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Micro fermentation time: 12 hours
Required accessories: Micro fermentation glass with membrane

Ingredients:

• 1 handful of fresh nettle leaves
• 1 banana
• 1 handful of fresh spinach leaves
• 1 mature mango
• 1 cup of coconut water or water
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
• 2 measuring spoons Micro fermentation accelerator

Preparation:

1. Wash the nettle leaves and free them from the stems. Make sure to wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.
2. Peel the banana and cut into pieces. Peel the mango, remove the core and cut the pulp into pieces.
3. All ingredients - nettle leaves, banana, spinach, mango, coconut water or water, lemon juice and optionally put the honey - in a mixer.
4. Switch on the mixer and puree all the ingredients into a smooth and creamy smoothie.
5. Add the micro fermentation accelerator and mix briefly.
6. Convert to a micro fermentation glass and have a micro fermentation closed for 12 hours.

Fill the smoothie into glasses and serve.

Tip: If necessary, you can also add a few ice cubes to make the smoothie more colder and refreshing.

This nettle smoothie is not only delicious, but also full of nutrients and health-promoting properties. Enjoy it as a refreshing snack or as a nutrient -rich breakfast!

Nettles are a wonderful ingredient for soups because they offer a unique taste and many health benefits.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Micro fermentation time: 12 hours
Required accessories: Micro fermentation glass with membrane

Ingredients:

• 200 g of fresh nettle leaves
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 500 ml of vegetable broth
• 100 g vegan crème fraiche (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg
• 2 measuring spoons Micro fermentation accelerator

Preparation:

1. Wash the nettle leaves and free them from the stems. It is advisable to wear gloves to avoid skin irritation. Roughly chop the leaves and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan. Sweat the chopped onion and the garlic in it over medium heat until they are soft and slightly golden brown.
3. Add the chopped nettle leaves and fry for about 2-3 minutes with the onions and the garlic.
4. Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce the heat and simmer the soup for about 10-15 minutes until the nettles are soft.
5. Take the soup off the stove, let it cool down and puree with a blender or a blender until a creamy consistency is reached. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pass the soup through a fine sieve.
6. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg.
7. Let the soup cool below 40 degrees Celsius. Micro fermentation accelerator
   Add and mix well.
8. Convert to a micro fermentation glass and have a micro fermentation closed for 12 hours.
9. Season the nettle soup with crème fraiche, serve in soup bowls and garnish with croutons or roasted bread.

Good appetite wishes you

Your Millivita team