The trees are pollinating now and ask me how I know When removing them gloves and long sleeves are essential. Start with a cup of nettle tea to see if you like it – try 1/2 cup of loose fresh nettle leaves with 1 cup boiling water and steep for 2-5 minutes or longer for more flavor. i want to know if freeze dry root or freeze dry leaf would make a difference.. i think the root is stronger than the leaf. I’m so glad you’ll give it a try! I have had stinging nettle on pizza and it is delicious! 4. In early spring, I cut the top third to half of the plant where the most tender leaves are. Hang them up somewhere, separating the fibres out somewhat so that the air can circulate around them. If a leaf or plant has torn, brown, shriveled or even bug eaten leaves, assume that the essential oils and nutrients are not in top condition. Also Read:  How to Prepare and Use Stinging Nettle, How to Freeze Stinging Nettle, How to Dry Stinging Nettle. I didn’t realise nettles were so versatile until I read your article, I love spinach so will definitely be trying nettles, and they’re free and ample here in Wales lol. And of course, freezing is another great way to preserve your nettle for later use. It loves rich, moist soil high in nitrogen. However, some studies tend to indicate that it is nothing more than just placebo effect. There are LOTS of nettles in the various parks I visit. Fabulous article. Copyright © 2020. Are they viruses spots? I’ve been eating stinging nettle for over 10 years and look forward to harvesting it every spring. Spread the leaves and stems on the dehydrator’s drying trays. White dead nettle (Lamium album) is from a different family of plants than stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), while it may mimic the look of stinging nettle, it is quite different. Despite what others may say, you’re not crazy! What length of time do think they would be okay stored in the freezer? It’s not an issue for anyone in my family, but something to be aware of and a reason why people often recommend harvesting nettle before it goes to seed. Hi Dennis, You'll get plenty of practical everyday tips from a Professional Home Economist who enjoys all food in balance and moderation, tries to limit the amount of processed foods, works to reduce food waste and is always open to questions. Hi Getty I’ve been using nettles in my compost for years but this year I’ll be trying your recipe I do have it growing in my garden and keep it growing for the above use so do have a supply of it on hand so I recon I can say winner. Some of the videos showed how to grasp the leaves (gloved hands, for the most part). I also appreciate the value of stinging nettles much to the amusement of my godmother who lives on the old family farm. Just began eating stinging nettles, raw (uncooked), after watching some Youtube videos. It forms great intruder deterrent and now provides food. If you can confirm that they are stinging nettle, harvest them early in the season when they are in good condition before the seeds form. Do you make a garde, Are you surprised that food prices are expected to, 50 homemade gifts from the kitchen you can safely, If you identify with this set up and all that it r, Crunchy or chewy - how do you like your granola ba, This carrot granola with warm, comforting pie spic, Time for what’s in #getgettyskitchen ! I use stems in the soup, you’ll notice I put them in earlier than the leaves so they get tender. Repeat steps 1 and 2 of drying using a food dehydrator. Again, just make sure there are no seed pods appearing – otherwise, you’ll be turning your compost bin into a … Puree the potatoes in the stock and add the nettle leaves – puree more if needed. Farmers know that old manure or compost piles are a favorite hang out for stinging nettles. This site is all about learning and finding ways to use, preserve and enjoy seasonal foods. I bet your godmother is having a grand time watching you process stinging nettles Lol, my mom chuckles too. White Dead Nettle looks very similar to stinging nettle but does not sting here in UK. There’s a lot you can do with stinging nettle. You could even turn the dried leaves into powder that could be added to just about anything. I have a pound of dried nettle that is about 2 years old. If there is any sign of mold, don’t use them. After the flowers turn to seeds, the old leaves will develop gritty particles called cystoliths that may be irritating to some people, whether taken as tea or eaten cooked. You can also turn dried nettle into powdered form. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has been a staple in herbal medicine since ancient times, such as to treat arthritis and back pain. Stinging nettle is a popular home remedy for arthritis, seasonal allergies, and many other conditions. Hi Getty, Allow drying for about 12 to 18 hours. All the best, To prevent the sting, we need to protect our skin from contact with the barb and the chemicals. Stinging nettle is known to offer a lot of nutrients. Dehydrate for up to 10 hours or until they are completely dry. 1. Being near the Equator there are always new leaves on it though early in the year it is a little yellow and more fibrous. -Jen in Shelburne, MA. So, use fresh when you can get it, but don't worry about drying it for use once the season passes. Picking the nettles when they are small (under a foot high), ensures smaller stems and more tender leaves. Simply wash the nettle leaves, pat dry, then remove the leaves from the stem. Take a firm grip at the base of the plant and pull them out. Maturity – More important than size is the maturity of the plant. This how to video is a great step-by-step tutorial on drying stinging nettle. Patch of nettle in sunny spot along edge of forest. Test as you go. This is because if the chemicals are allowed to dry on the skin, they’re easier to remove. Simmer 40 minutes. I write from Nairobi, Kenya. Whenever I harvest any wild edibles, I look for the best specimens that are blemish free. However, clinical trials are limited. By cutting just above that spot, you actually encourage new growth. After it flowers and seeds form, stinging nettle gets more gritty which may lead to urinary concerns in some people. I have nettles all over my yard for free, so score! Let's put good food on the table! If the look and texture might be an issue for anyone around the table, you could grind the the dried nettles to a powder and add them to just about anything (I add dried beet powder in various quantities to soups, smoothies, stews, spaghetti sauce, etc). Sorry, I can’t help you with this one. Before starting to freeze and store I decided to take them to the local extension office and it took them two hours but they identified it as snakeroot. Is there something I should or should not use the stems for? Whit this method, I never harvest the bottom leaves, which are often bigger. They are, however safe to eat. That way you’ll get the best nutrients from the plant and you’ll be much happier and confident with your edibles. The plant contains various minerals, vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids, pigments, and polyphenols, with a lot of them acting as antioxidants inside the body. Bring the chicken stock and barley to a boil and simmer in a saucepan for … Thanks for the great questions, here are my thoughts: IT isn’t very young leaves and I wonder if I should dry them the rest of the way. 5. You’ll also find how we can work together to make good food happen for everyone. Nettles are best when picked small. M guessing that I could use it do is eat it raw over my yard for,. To grow to over 6 feet and along the edges of small urban forests chicken stock and barley to simmer... 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