Sorrel, Sweet Sorrel
Written by Marie Nygren, Posted in farmers market, Recipe Articles, Serenbe Farmhouse, Serenbe Farms
I was asked recently what food item is a quintessentially spring-season food to me. My answer – sorrel. Are you asking yourself, “What is sorrel and what do I do with it?” Sorrel is a slender plant, resembling spinach in appearance but with a citrus taste. Young leaves taste different than their more acidic older counterparts. I use sorrel as a lettuce, in the preparation of my favorite soup – sorrel soup – and in sauces.
The color and flavor evoke an image of spring in my mind. I adore it. Unfortunately, I’m not the only one; sorrel is quite popular with moths and butterflies, rabbits, deer and probably countless other creatures who I compete with for the most tender leaves.
Thankfully, Serenbe’s talented resident farmer, Paige, has perfected growing sorrel at Serenbe Farms, so I’m assured a supply of the brilliantly green leaves for Farmhouse patrons as well as for my family’s pleasure. You, too, can pick it up at the Serenbe Farmers’ Market.
I hope you are enjoying the foods that remind you of spring. It’s such a great time of year.
One of my favorite ways to experience sorrel is sorrel soup. I’m sharing my recipe. Please enjoy!
Sorrel Soup
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 pound onions, coarsely chopped
1 small garlic clove, minced
6 cups chicken stock
½ pound potatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped
¾ pound sorrel, trimmed and torn in large pieces
salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
sour cream
Heat butter in a deep pot and sauté onions until wilted and turning golden, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Add stock and heat, then add potatoes. Simmer until potatoes are done, about 10 minutes. Stir in sorrel and heat thoroughly.
Transfer to a food processor and puree. Return to the pot and heat for another few minutes, correcting seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top of each serving. This recipe doubles and even triples quite nicely and easily.
Looks like you had fun on your trip. I’ll be trying the sorrel soup, it looks mmm so good…..