To begin with I pulled on some gloves and strolled a little way up the drive, where I picked a colander full of nettles, trying for the youngest and tenderest looking.
Back in the kitchen, I boiled the nettles for a couple of minutes, just long enough to wilt them and get rid of their sting. Then I drained them (keeping the water for use in soup) and threw them, stems and all, into the food processor, together with a clove of garlic, a big handful of pine nuts, some grated parmesan, the juice and grated rind of half a lemon, and salt and pepper to taste. Finally I trickled in enough olive oil to blend.
It turned out the most amazing shade of green. It tasted wonderful too, very fresh and citrusy.
I thought it would be delicious on pasta but Farmdoc had baked a loaf of bread so we just spread it thickly on large slices of that and it went in a flash. Next time I'll try to save enough for pasta.
Yum. I know I have a conflict of interest here, but the nettle pesto was really delicious. Thanks, chef.
ReplyDeleteI'm so pleased that the nettle pesto turned out so well. There is the most beautiful, scrumptious
ReplyDeleterecipe for nettle risotto published in the popular recipe book - 'Silver Spoon' -'The Bible of Italian Cooking' - published by Phaidon - it is even better than just placing it on pasta.
Very pleased to hear Farmdoc is recovered and eating the most gorgeous, green pesto I've seen in a long time. All the best wishes, Bin
ReplyDeleteI'm sure Farmdoc's bread was delicious.....and a perfect base for your pesto. Great taste eh!
ReplyDeleteFarmdoc, thanks for your scrumptious bread and keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteBaz, sounds like you've made that nettle risotto. Where did you get the nettles, living in the city as you do? You should plant a patch outside your front door - keep the drunks at bay!
Bin, thanks for your good wishes. Hope you and your tribe are well and that Rob's illness is far behind you now.
wholelarderlove, thanks for the inspiration. I love your blog and can't wait to see your book!
Years ago my Mum had a load of sheep poo brought to her suburban backyard just so that stinging nettle would take in her garden. Most people thought she was mad of course but as a good European she loved her nettle. It's great to know she wasn't the only mad person in Australia. Cherrie
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