Stinging Nettle Meal (Isırgan Otu Yemeği)

Stinging nettle; doesn't sound like an edible moiety, but it is. If you ask the farmer, whom I bought it, stinging nettle cures all type of disease. All types! I cooked it according to the recipe below, it is a very nice and fulfilling meal but be warned, it has a strong taste. Better consume in small portions. According to Wikipedia, the plant is rich in magnesium, calcium, and vitamin A even after it is cooked.

Ingredients:

Stinging nettle

Bulgur or rice, 2-3 tablespoons

Onion

Paprika

Tomato paste -salcha-

Olive oil

Preparation

Wash the nettle and soak in cold water.  By all means, wear gloves!!! 

In a wide pan, fry oil, salcha, and finely diced on

Cut the nettle in large chunks and add into the pan.

When the leaves release water and become flat, add rice or bulgur and add hot water if it looks dry. Let it simmer for 15 minutes and leave to rest for another 15 minutes with the lid on and heat off.