An addition to the menu you won’t be stung for

sir – While living in Bologna, Italy, I was fortunate enough to know of a small country trattoria in the Apennine hills whose speciality pasta was homemade green tagliatelle alle

ortiche, or nettle tagliatelle (Letters, April 17).

It was completely delicious served with their homemade Bolognese ragu.

Mary Al Naber

Parkton, Maryland, United States sir – Thirsty readers could do worse than pick a few nettles. Add some water, sugar, lemon juice and a sprinkle of yeast, let it bubble up for about a week and then enjoy your nettle beer.

When it works, it is a very refreshing drink. When it doesn’t, it sadly tastes a bit cabbagey.

John Williams

Bradwell-on-sea, Essex