Eatwell Farmhouse Kitchen

I did not harvest any nettles while we were out walking, so I have not had a chance to play with them in a dish.  Here is a little interesting information regarding the health benefits of Nettles, from the book The Herbal Medicine Makers Handbook by James Green: a spring tonic and a general alterative detoxifying agent which clears out waste products, strengthens the mucosa of the urinary, digestive and respiratory systems and when taken fresh works against the allergic response to hayfever.  It is an excellent potherb cooked like spinach or any other fresh greens.  I have found some really interesting recipes including a Risotto With Nettles on the Mariquita Farm website www.mariquita.com/recipes.  If you decide to make a risotto I would most definitely add sauteed carrots.  AND regarding the carrots, if you have never had Eatwell Farm carrots I know you will not be disappointed.  I pulled one out of the ground it was so sweet and flavorful!  Most carrots are grown in very sandy soil therefor do not have the advantage of the extra flavor from mineral rich soil like ours.  They are very hard for us to grow, so enjoy them while they last!  When I get my box this week this is what I plan to do.

Carrots, Potatoes, & Nettles

Potatoes, washed well

Carrots, washed well and sliced or cubed

Nettles, washed well, most recipes suggest using gloves I will use tongs

1/2 Onion, minced

1 clove Garlic, minced

Olive Oil

Butter

Salt and Pepper

Start a pot of well salted water to boil with the potatoes.  Once the water is boiling bring the temp down to a very low simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, not mushy.  Rinse with cold water and when cool enough to handle cut into chunks.  Melt a TB of butter in a skillet with a few TB of olive oil.  Once heated sautee the onion 1 to 2 minutes, then add the carrots. When the carrots are just beginning to softend add the  potatoes.  Add more oil and or butter if you need to, season with salt and pepper.  Toss in the nettles and cook until well wilted.  Adjust seasoning you can also use any fresh herbs you have left.