A to Z of French Herbs - Nettles - Les Orties

Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast

In today's episode of "Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast," we continue our fascinating A to Z series on French herbs with a deep dive into the intriguing world of nettles, or "Les Orties" as they are known in French. Host Andrew Prior enlightens us with the botanical history of nettles, tracing back to 1753 when Carl Linnaeus classified them as Urtica dioica. Listeners will discover the etymology of "Urtica," derived from the Latin "uro," meaning to burn or sting, and "dioica," from the Greek word for two houses. This episode brims with fascinating facts, such as the discovery by botanist Charles Naudin that a strong wind can render nettle stings harmless.

Exploring the historical and cultural significance of nettles, Andrew reveals their role in the nitrogen cycle and their surprising utility during wartime, such as the German army's use of nettle fibers for uniforms in World War I. Nettles have also been significant in various traditions and legends, from Julius Caesar’s troops using them for alertness to the Tibetan saint Milarepa’s green skin from prolonged use. We also learn about the practical applications of nettles in ancient textiles, paper production, and even cheese making in France, highlighting their versatility beyond their notorious sting.

For culinary enthusiasts, the episode offers a delightful surprise: Andrew’s favorite recipe for nettle soup. He walks us through the process of transforming these wild plants into a delicious and nutritious meal. Nettles, rich in vitamins A, B, and C, along with essential minerals, are not just a historical or botanical curiosity but a contemporary superfood. This episode of "Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast" not only enriches our understanding of "Les Orties" but also invites us to appreciate their unique place in French culinary and cultural heritage.

Looking to deepen your culinary journey beyond the podcast? Andrew's latest book, Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City, is your passport to gastronomic delights in the City of Lights. Packed with recommendations for boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, and more, this guide ensures you savor the best of Parisian cuisine.

Find Andrew's book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City and explore more at www.andrewpriorfabulously.com. For a signed and gift-packaged copy of the book, visit https://www.andrewpriorfabulously.com/book-paris-a-food-guide-to-the-worlds-most-delicious-city Also available on Amazon and Kindle.

For those craving an immersive French food experience, join Andrew in Montmorillon for a hands-on cooking adventure. Stay in his charming townhouse and partake in culinary delights straight from the heart of France.

Experience French culinary delights firsthand with Andrew's Vienne residencies. Visit https://www.andrewpriorfabulously.com/come-stay-with-me-vienne-residency for more information.

Have your own Meadowsweet recipes or stories to share? Connect with Andrew on Instagram @andrewpriorfabulously or via email [e-mail] for a chance to be featured on the podcast or his blog.

Tune in to Fabulously Delicious on the Evergreen Podcast Network for more tantalizing tales of French gastronomy. Remember, whatever you do, do it Fabulously!

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