NETTLE 
The common Nettle is not often used as a vegetable 
in this country, but it is not at all bad if gathered 
before the growths get 
hardened and become 
harsh and flavourless. The 
plant is more used in 
country places than in 
towns ; indeed I fear many 
town-dwellers would hesi- 
tate to collect or cook the 
plant, but it would not be 
refused as a vegetable by 
many who did not know 
what it was. It is also 
largely employed in mak- 
ing a wholesome drink, 
known as nettle tea or 
beer. As regards its cul- 
ture, unfortunately it is 
too common and difficult to get rid of when thor- 
oughly established, and therefore cultivation is out of 
the question. 
To Cook Nettles 
The young tender shoots should be well washed, 
dried, and tied in neat bundles. They should then be 
steamed till tender — generally for about twenty minutes 
— and then served with beurre jondu or other simple sauce. 
in a young state — I mean 
CHINA-GRASS SILVERY NETTLE 
