Unintentional Gardening: Turning Baby Nettles into a Nutritious Breakfast

I had been using a homemade fertilizer made from nettle plants and unknowingly sowing nettle seeds.

My plant pots were filled with baby nettles, especially the indoor ones.

Knowing their benefits, I hesitated to pull them out. Instead, I let them grow a bit bigger, hoping to use them for something.

As I was cooking garlic fried rice this morning, I thought I needed some vegetables to add in. My eyes glanced at these baby nettles, full of vigor, and I imagined the nutrition I would get from them.

I didn’t hesitate to pull them up before their stalks hardened, thinking I might as well use them.

I pulled some, cut off the roots, and found the stems were still tender.

I chopped them up.

I added them to the fried rice.

Ohh yes, it stung me with bare hands :)

The stinging you feel when touching raw nettles comes from tiny, hair-like structures on the leaves and stems. These hairs contain chemicals like histamine and formic acid that cause irritation. When you cook, dry, or crush the nettles, these stinging chemicals are neutralized, so the plant becomes safe and comfortable to handle and eat.

We all enjoyed the breakfast with the baby nettles in it. Not only was it tasty, but it also provided us with lots of vitamins and minerals.

Now, I’m thinking of planting them indoors during winter so that I can harvest the young nettle leaves and stalks for cooking and reap the benefits.

So, best to collect more nettle seeds.

Sometimes, we learn from things that are unintentionally done, and they can be very useful.

Happy Gardening, everyone.

Mariah 💚

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Below are nettles nutrients that offers variety of health benefits.

Vitamin A: Supports eye health and immune function.

Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and aids in collagen production.

Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting and bone health.

B Vitamins: Including folate, which is essential for cell function and red blood cell production.

Iron: Crucial for the production of hemoglobin and oxygen transport in the blood.

Calcium: Supports bone and teeth health.

Magnesium: Helps with muscle function, nerve function, and energy production.

Potassium: Regulates fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals.

Baby nettles are surprisingly rich in protein for a plant, which is essential for tissue repair and muscle growth.

Nettles contain powerful antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids, which help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
Fiber:

They are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.

Nettles are rich in chlorophyll, which can help detoxify the body and support skin health.

Incorporating baby nettles into your diet can provide a substantial nutritional boost, particularly in terms of vitamins, minerals, and protein.

Have a wonderful Sunday.

Mariah 🍃😊