A classic Bulgarian comfort dish, this light and nutritious nettle soup is enriched with tender rice, aromatic vegetables, and a refreshing lemon finish, offering a taste of Bulgaria’s springtime bounty.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients (Serves Four People)
- 200-300 grams of fresh nettle leaves
- 100 grams short grain rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 liters of vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Bulgarian yogurt and fresh dill (for garnish – option 1)
- White cheese (for garnish – option 2)
Note: 1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Nettle
Begin by carefully washing the nettle leaves (use gloves to avoid getting stung). Drain them and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Wilt the Nettle
Add the washed nettle leaves to the pot, stirring them to wilt. Let them cook down for 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Rice and Broth
Stir in the short-grain rice, coating it with olive oil and aromatic flavors. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Simmer
Allow the soup to simmer for 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the nettles have fully cooked through.
Step 6: Season and Add Lemon
Stir in the lemon juice, then season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another minute before removing it from the heat.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls. For option 1, garnish with a dollop of Bulgarian yogurt and freshly chopped dill. For option 2, add a dollop of yogurt and crumble white cheese on top for a savory finish.
Tips and Tricks
- Handle with Care: Always use gloves when handling fresh nettle leaves, as they can sting before cooking.
- Nettle Substitute: If nettles aren’t in season, spinach or Swiss chard can be used as substitutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Serve with Bulgarian yogurt or white cheese (but never together).
Wine Pairing
In Bulgaria, we usually do not have wine with soups.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 800 mg
Storage Suggestions
This soup can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to achieve the desired consistency, as the rice may absorb more liquid during storage.
About the Bulgarian Nettle Soup
Bulgarian Nettle Soup (супа от коприва) is a beloved springtime recipe that uses fresh nettle leaves, known for their high nutritional value. Combined with rice and aromatic vegetables, this soup offers a nourishing, light meal that reflects Bulgaria’s connection to the land and its seasonal ingredients.
Cultural Context
In Bulgaria, nettle (коприва) symbolizes the transition from winter to spring and is often used in soups, stews, and teas. This dish highlights the traditional use of foraged ingredients passed down through generations in Bulgarian rural communities. Nettle soup is a staple during the spring, celebrated for its simplicity and health benefits, particularly in regions where wild greens are part of everyday cuisine.