Nettle Fritters

Nettle fritters are a rustic dish that’s quite interesting from a nutritional standpoint, as nettles are rich in vitamins and minerals. Here is the recipe with an Italian touch:

Ingredients

• 250 g of young nettle leaves
• 200 g of flour
• 1 egg
• 250 ml of milk (or a vegetable drink for a lactose-free option)
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

Preparation

1. Start by picking the nettle leaves, preferably young and tender, making sure to wear gloves to avoid getting stung. Wash them well under running water to remove any impurities.
2. Boil the nettles in boiling water for a few minutes to remove their stinging properties. Drain and squeeze them well to get rid of any excess water. Chop them finely.
3. In a bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg. Begin to gradually incorporate the milk, mixing with a whisk to avoid lumps.
4. Incorporate the finely chopped nettles into the batter until you get a homogeneous consistency.
5. Heat plenty of oil in a frying pan. When the oil reaches the right temperature (you can test it with a small piece of batter, which should fry without burning), use a spoon to drop portions of the batter into the oil and fry until golden and crispy.
6. Drain the nettle fritters on paper towels to remove the excess oil and serve them hot.

Curiosity

In some Italian regions, nettle fritters were considered a poor man’s dish, consumed especially during lean periods when meats were less accessible. Today, however, they are revalued for their nutritional properties and unique flavor.

Remember to taste the batter and adjust the salt if necessary before proceeding with frying. And for an even more local touch, you could add some grated pecorino cheese to your batter, which pairs very well with the taste of nettles. Enjoy your meal!