Easy lifehacks

What is nettle soup good for?

What is nettle soup good for?

nettles are very rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals, especially iron- a great option for vegan diets. They have been used as a natural remedy in many cultures for thousands of years to help detoxify the body, regulate hormones, act as an anti-inflammatory, help with circulation and allergies.

Can you cook with wild garlic leaves?

The leaves have a vibrant punch to them when eaten raw, so finely chopping them and using them in a similar way to herbs is a nice way to showcase the fresh flavour. Cooking the wild garlic leaves mellows out the flavour: simply blanch or wilt for 30–60 seconds as you would with spinach.

Can you freeze wild garlic?

Similarly to frozen fruit or vegetables, wild garlic can be frozen to preserve its freshness and nutrients. Simply, wash and dry and place in a freezer bag and freeze. Another benefit freezing wild garlic this is you can cook with wild garlic out of season.

How do you pick wild garlic in Ireland?

The key way to identify it is by smell, pick one of the leaves and you will immediately notice a distinct garlic scent. Use a scissors and pick the leaves and flowers at their stems. You should need no more than a basket full, and they can be used in salads as you would chives or made into marinades.

What are the side effects of nettle?

Stinging nettle is generally considered safe when used as directed. Occasional side effects include mild stomach upset, fluid retention, sweating, diarrhea, and hives or rash (mainly from topical use). It is important to be careful when handling the nettle plant because touching it can cause an allergic rash.

What can I do with wild garlic flowers?

Once the leaves are starting to lose their pungency, the flowers will appear in the later part of spring—these are edible, too. You can use the flowers as a decoration or add to a salad. Make sure you have cleaned them thoroughly to remove any insects which may have made their home inside the flower.

How do I use wild garlic in cooking?

Younger leaves, flowers and seed pods can simply be added to salads and the flower stems can be used like chives. Bigger leaves can be wilted like spinach or blitzed into oil, pesto or dressing.

How long does wild garlic last in fridge?

Because of its high water content, wild garlic only lasts a few days after purchase. Either prep it directly, or store in the fridge wrapped in a damp kitchen towel and use it up within the next two days.

Is it illegal to pick wild garlic in Ireland?

The entire plant is edible. The bulbs can be used like normal garlic, but unless you own the land on which it grows it is illegal to uproot wild garlic (or any wild plant). Uprooting it also prevents it from returning the next year. Also, avoid harvesting near paths to avoid plants tainted by dog urine.

Are the flowers of wild garlic edible?

The characteristic white flowers however, are perfectly edible – and pretty too – although the plant is at its best before too many flowers appear, signalling tougher leaves and a more bitter flavour. In April, when wild garlic is at its peak, you are more likely to find delicious tight buds than open flowers.

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Ruth Doyle