Region of Origin
Commodity:
Stinging Nettle
Description & Origin
The stinging nettle is a wild herbaceous plant that can grow over 6 feet in height. It has yellow roots, green leaves that are finely toothed, and tiny plant hairs called trichomes. These trichomes are why the herb is called “stinging” nettle, as they may irritate the skin when touched with bare hands. However, they have an incredibly refreshing taste, somewhat similar to spinach with undertones o...
Other Names
American Stinging Nettle, Burn Nettle, The Great Stinging Nettle, Urtica Diocia
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Stinging nettle is extremely nutritional. Its leaves are full of fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that give the body a great immunity boost. It is also a great source of magnesium, potassium, and protein.
For hundreds of years this plant has been known for having healing properties, and even today it is still used to prevent and treat diseases. In medieval times, stinging nettle was used as a diuretic and a way to relieve joint pains, gout, eczema, arthritis, and more. The leaf was typically applied topically to the area causing some pain, as people found that when the plant met with a painful area of the body, it decreased the original pain.
The biologically active chemicals that the nettle contains allow it to be used in modern medicine to treat health problems such as ulcers, and new studies show it may also help to prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease. More modern studies have shown that stinging nettle combined with other herbs helps to relieve symptoms of urinary tract infections and other urinary problems.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Stinging nettle is most commonly used in soups and seasoning or made into tea or pesto. They can also substitute spinach or kale in any recipe after correct preparation.
Flavor Pairings
Garlic, Ginger, Curry, Pepper, Apple, Lemon, Almonds, Prosciutto, Onion, Chili
How to Prepare
It is extremely important to wear gloves when handling nettles due to the trichomes. There are many ways in which they can be prepared and stored. If the nettles are newly harvested and intended to be stored for later, they must be dried and then frozen. Drying the nettles is important because it causes them to lose their sting. They can be dried in a dehydrator or on a rack. To dry on a rack, be sure the nettle has good air circulation and keep in mind it may take up to 7 days to fully dry. To dry in a dehydrator, set to the lowest setting (95-115°F) and leave for 12-14 hours.
If the nettles are newly harvested but intended to be eaten fresh or not stored for a long period of time, they can be blanched. The process of blanching includes boiling nettles for 4 minutes until they become a vibrant green color. Then, they must be placed in a bowl with cold water and ice for 1-2 minutes. After these steps, they may be drained and then cooked. It is important to note that the nettles are no longer harmful after being cooked, so if hairs are still visible on the nettles that will not be a problem unless they were not blanched fully.
How to Store & Use in the Kitchen
Store fresh stinging nettles intended for immediate use in a cool, dry, and dark area of the refrigerator. To preserve shelf-life for later use, stinging nettles may be stored in the freezer.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
The leaves, stems, and roots of stinging nettle can be made into soups, smoothies, stews, and more. The dried leaves of the nettle along with its flowers can be made into an herbal nettle tea.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
34°F
RECOMMENDED TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
32-39°F (Cool Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING INJURY:
No
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
No exact number - keep stored in a cool, dry place once dried
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
Unknown
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Unknown
Quality Assessment
Stinging nettles should not have any flowering, as they are supposed to be harvested in early spring before they flower. The nettles cannot be eaten once flowered. It is very important to wear gloves when dealing stinging nettle – whether it is harvesting, gathering, or preparing nettle. They can cause blisters, pain, and rashes at the touch.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, stinging nettle may last up to 6-12 months.
