Costa Rican Nettle Soup

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have replaced some of the traditional Serbian ingredients with Costa Rican flavors. Instead of using regular broth, we incorporate coconut milk to give the soup a tropical touch. Lime juice adds a tangy kick, while cilantro enhances the fresh and vibrant flavors. These changes infuse the dish with the essence of Costa Rican cuisine, making it a unique and delicious fusion. We alse have the original recipe for Čorba od koprive, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh nettle leaves 500g (1.1 lb) fresh nettle leaves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 carrot, diced 1 carrot, diced
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 8g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wear gloves to handle the nettle leaves and remove any tough stems.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the red bell pepper and carrot, and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. 4.
   Add the nettle leaves to the pot and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. 5.
   Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. 6.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
7. 7.
   Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Nettle leaves — Wear gloves when handling nettle leaves to avoid stinging. Remove any tough stems before using.

Tips & Tricks

• If fresh nettle leaves are not available, you can use dried nettle leaves. Soak them in water for 10 minutes before using.
• Adjust the lime juice according to your taste preference. Add more for a tangier flavor or less for a milder taste.
• For a heartier soup, you can add cooked rice or quinoa to the soup before serving.
• Garnish the soup with a drizzle of coconut milk and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra tropical touch.
• Serve the soup with warm corn tortillas for a traditional Costa Rican accompaniment.

Serving advice

Serve the Costa Rican Nettle Soup hot in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with a sprig of fresh cilantro for added freshness and aroma. Accompany the soup with warm corn tortillas for a complete Costa Rican dining experience.

Presentation advice

Present the Costa Rican Nettle Soup in vibrant bowls that highlight the beautiful green color of the soup. Place a lime wedge on the side of each bowl for guests to squeeze over their soup for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Serve the soup with a side of warm corn tortillas neatly folded on a separate plate.