Boiled Nettles

Ingredients

• 1 pound Fresh nettle leaves (young, light-green) (Gather in early spring.)
• 8 cups Water (For washing and boiling)
• 1 teaspoon Salt (To taste)
• 0.25 teaspoon Baking soda (A very small piece)
• 0.5 cup Butter (Melted, for serving)

Instructions

1. 1Carefully gather young, light-green nettle leaves in early spring. Wear gloves to avoid stings. Wash the nettles thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. 2Place the washed nettles in a large pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil over high heat and boil for 5 minutes. Drain the nettles in a colander and discard the water.
3. 3Return the nettles to the pot and cover with fresh water. Add salt and baking soda. Bring to a boil and cook until the nettles are tender, about 5-10 minutes.
4. 4Drain the cooked nettles in a colander and press out any excess water. Transfer to a hot serving dish. Score the nettles across three or four times with a knife. Serve immediately with melted butter in a tureen.