Step 1

Put a few inches of water in the bottom of the pot, then turn the heat to high, bring to a boil, then add the steamer basket, wood nettle shoots, and cover the pot. Turn the heat to medium high and set a timer for 5 minutes.

Step 2

After five minutes, taste a shoot.

Step 3

The shoots should be bright green and tender, but still have a bit of life to them--don't cook them to mush.

Step 4

Allow guests to serve themselves from the pot so the shoots hold their heat. Pass the salt and oil at the table.