Creamy Wild Watercress & Nettle Soup

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watercress nettles motherwort catmint-w

Wild watercress and nettles are sprouting in Wisconsin, and they are quite the culinary treat!

High in calcium, iron, vitamin c, beta-carotene, magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper, vitamin E, vitamin K, lutein, b vitamins, and many more, watercress is rich in potent antioxidants that help to fight cancer. It’s been found to help smokers or those exposed to secondhand smoke excrete the toxins found in cigarettes via urine more rapidly.

Stinging nettles are my go-to safe alternative to allergy drugs. They help hayfever and any type of allergies, supporting the immune system and anti-inflammatory response naturally, instead of just covering up symptoms like drugs. This plant has been used for prostate problems, PMS, asthma, bronchitis, sciatica, tendonitis, multiple sclerosis, gout, hives, kidney stones, sciatica, high blood pressure, & eczema. Just about one cup of this veggie will give you half the calcium you need for the day, with good amounts of magnesium, manganese, iron, b vitamins, vitamin k, beta carotene, and potassium.

Both greens are great for anemia, helping support detoxification and liver health, and for arthritis.   Note: Be careful not to touch the nettles without gloves- they bite!

Ingredients:

2 cups MSG-free vegetable broth

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil or organic butter

1 small onion, roughly chopped

1 bunch of watercress

1 bunch of nettles

2 medium potatoes, peeled & chopped

2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives

¼ cup organic whole plain yogurt, extra to garnish (eliminate to make vegan)

Sprinkle of chives to garnish

Himalayan salt & black pepper to taste

 

Directions:

Bring the broth to a boil, and add the potatoes. Meanwhile in a large saucepan, heat the butter/oil over medium heat. Add the nettles, watercress, and onions. Turn heat down a bit and cook until the onions are translucent. Once your potatoes are tender, add the cooked greens mixture to the pot and boil for a couple minutes. Place in your food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Add the yogurt, then season to taste with the salt & pepper. Ladle into bowls immediately and enjoy!

Warmly,

Megan Normansell (Kerkhoff), CHC, AADP, CFH

Certified Holistic Practitioner/Holistic Nutrition/Herbalist/Wild Edibles Guide

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Copyright Megan Normansell 2019.

Poor (Wo)man’s Soup

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It’s always possible to eat healthy when you’re on a tight budget- and this is one of my favorite recipes for those times. High in vegetable protein, fiber, veggies, and complex carbs, this soup is an incredibly satisfying meal. This recipe will make 8-10 servings, and will end up costing you anywhere between $.25 and $.75 per serving.

Ingredients:

  • About 2 cups of dried beans, soaked and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup barley, soaked and rinsed (omit if you are gluten free)
  • 16 cups of purified water
  • About 8 carrots, chopped
  • About 5 celery stalks, chopped
  • One small onion, chopped
  • 1-3 tbsp Simply Organic All Purpose Seasoning
  • Your favorite spices- such as parsley, chives, garlic, sea salt, black pepper, or a pinch of cayenne pepper powder
    *Superfood boost: Add sea green flakes (I used dulse in this recipe) and turmeric powder

Directions:
Bring your water to a boil in a large kettle and add your beans. Cook for about 30 minutes on medium heat, then add your veggies and barley. It will take an additional 30-60 minutes for the beans to be fully cooked, depending upon which ones you chose. Small beans like black eyed peas may only take 45 minutes to be done, whereas large beans like kidney beans may take up to 90 minutes. Once your beans are almost tender, add your desired seasonings. Taste before serving it to see if you need any additional spices.

Thanks for visiting!

Megan Normansell (Kerkhoff), CHC, AADP, CFH

Certified Holistic Practitioner/Holistic Nutrition/Herbalist/Wild Edibles Guide

Follow me on Facebook and Instagram for more recipes and healthy living ideas!

Get Even Healthier!
Get the answers you’ve been searching for, and heal your body for good… naturally and holistically.  We have successfully helped thousands of people across the country live a healthier life than they ever could have imagined, and specialize in dozens of different health concerns. Curious? 
Schedule your complimentary consultation with me today! Read the incredible reviews we’ve received over the years here!

http://www.aayushealth.com     –     megan@aayushealth.com    –    920-327-2221