- Eat it raw. Fresh leaves from a youngpurslane plant are the best! Add it to salads, eat it alone as a snack, use it as a garnish. ...
- Juice it. Throw in purslane leaves (and stems) and an apple as a natural sweetener. As purslane thickens as its blended, add water as needed. ...
- Cook it. When cooked, purslane adds a mild tangy, flavor making it the perfect addition to soups and stews.
- Freeze it. While freezing purslane compromises its crunchy texture, you can still use it in soups, stews, or juices.
- Ferment it. If you enjoy sauerkraut, you might enjoy the fermented taste of purslane. Besides, purslane is loaded with more nutrients than your average sauerkraut.
What is purslane and is it safe to eat?
Purslane is a good source of alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that’s found in plants. This makes purslane a great vegan omega-3 option. It helps improve heart health, reduce inflammation, support bone health and promote mental health, among other important omega-3 benefits .
How to cook purslane recipes?
Instructions
- Wash individual stems thoroughly. ...
- Gather all the ingredients on the counter.
- In the boiling water, add a pinch of salt, and then add purslane. ...
- Remove the purslane to a plate.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add oil.
- Once hot, add garlic, green onions, optional red chili peppers, sugar, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. ...
- Add the garlic mixture to the purslane. ...
Can purslane be eaten raw?
Yes, purslane is actually a very useful plant to find in your garden. The leaves, stems, flower buds and seeds of purslane are all edible. As a vegetable it can be eaten raw and cooked, in salads, juices, sandwiches, dips, pesto, stir fries, quiches, soups, curries, stews, sauces and more.
Is all purslane edible?
With all that being said, here are a few ways you can eat purslane:
- Toss it into a salad. Purslane is often tossed into salads or added to soups in the Mediterranean area.
- Chop purslane into an omelette. In Mexico, purslane is an addition to omelettes much like spinach is here.
- Steam and eat. You can steam purslane like you would other veggies. ...
- Eat it with cucumber. ...
- Mix it in a smoothie. ...
See more
What part of the purslane is edible?
Any purslane plant can be harvested and eaten, as the leaves, stems, and flowers are completely edible. When preparing wild purslane, it's important to wash the plant carefully to ensure that no pesticides are on the leaves. Purslane is tart and a little salty, making it a great addition to salads and other dishes.
What does purslane taste like?
It has a slightly sour or salty taste, similar to spinach and watercress. It can be used in many of the same ways as spinach and lettuce, such as in salads or sandwiches. Purslane grows in many parts of the world, in a wide range of environments.
How do I prepare purslane to eat?
To prepare purslane, fill the sink with cold water and immerse the entire bunch. Swish it around to loosen the zillions of tiny black seeds and any dirt that may be clinging to it. The seeds are safe to eat, but most of them will fall to the bottom of the sink anyway.
Is purslane toxic to humans?
The plant is nutritious and generally considered safe for human consumption. Due its content of oxalic acid, purslane should not be consumed by people with kidney disease or that have high uric acid (Gardner and McGuffin, 2012; Berdonces, 2009; Duke et al., 2009).
Who should not eat purslane?
Purslane and other leafy vegetables have high levels of oxalates (15). It can contribute to the formation of stones in your urinary tract and kidneys. People who are prone to developing kidney or urinary tract stones should avoid eating purslane.
What does purslane cure?
Its use as a purgative, cardiac tonic, emollient, muscle relaxant, and anti-inflammatory and diuretic treatment makes it important in herbal medicine. Purslane has also been used in the treatment of osteoporosis and psoriasis.
Can purslane cause diarrhea?
It even helps to reduce fevers and inflammation and you can use it to relieve sunburn pain like you would use aloe vera. Before you rush outside to look for this amazing wild edible, beware of spurge, which is a poisonous "purslane imposter". Consuming spurge causes severe abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea.
Do you eat the stems of purslane?
Although the stems are edible when still young (and can be pickled), cooks usually keep only the leaves and thin, spindly stems at the top, which are simply plucked from the central stem.
Are all types of purslane edible?
The leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds of the purslane plant are all edible, but I've only eaten the stems and leaves myself. They have a slightly sour edge (not as strong as wood sorrel) and a hint of a mucilaginous quality (not as strong as mallows). Purslane is terrific as part of a salad.
How much purslane should you eat a day?
Dosing. Limited clinical studies are available to provide dosage guidelines; however, 180 mg/day of purslane extract has been studied in diabetic patients, and powdered seeds have been taken at 1 to 30 g daily in divided doses, as well as both ethanol and aqueous purslane extracts.
Is purslane good for weight loss?
Even though purslane is nutrient-rich and bound with high dietary fiber, yet it is remarkably low in calories. This means that you feel satisfied after a meal of purslane, without actually raising the calorie intake, which thereby helps you lose weight and control your diet.
Does purslane lower blood pressure?
Consumption of purslane for 5 weeks led to a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure and a borderline significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure in persons with type 2 diabetes.
Can purslane make you sick?
It looks like it sounds, thin white sap that oozes out of the stems when the plant is broken. This sap will irritate your skin (similarly to poison ivy) and will make you very sick - don't eat it!
Can purslane cause diarrhea?
It even helps to reduce fevers and inflammation and you can use it to relieve sunburn pain like you would use aloe vera. Before you rush outside to look for this amazing wild edible, beware of spurge, which is a poisonous "purslane imposter". Consuming spurge causes severe abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea.
Is purslane good for weight loss?
Even though purslane is nutrient-rich and bound with high dietary fiber, yet it is remarkably low in calories. This means that you feel satisfied after a meal of purslane, without actually raising the calorie intake, which thereby helps you lose weight and control your diet.
Can you eat the stems of purslane?
Although the stems are edible when still young (and can be pickled), cooks usually keep only the leaves and thin, spindly stems at the top, which are simply plucked from the central stem.
What does purslane taste like?
If you’ve ever tasted aloe vera, purslane tastes like a tangier version of it. If you’ve never tasted aloe vera, purslane is often compared to watercress. Personally, I think it tastes like a tangy cucumber with some kick! Slightly tangy, slightly crunchy— ideal for snacking on!
How to store purslane?
You don’t need to dice it finely—larger chunks are fine. Place purslane in a quart jar and add all other ingredients. Stir gently until well combined. Add enough water to cover all ingredients. Secure on the lid. Store at room temperature for one week and then move to the refrigerator for long term storage. Use the pickled purslane as a side garnish to add a sour pickle-like flavor!
How to make purslane a sweetener?
Juice it. Throw in purslane leaves (and stems) and an apple as a natural sweetener. As purslane thickens as its blended, add water as needed. Purslane juice is a great way to start the day. Cook it. When cooked, purslane adds a mild tangy, flavor making it the perfect addition to soups and stews. Freeze it.
How does purslane affect the taste of the leaves?
The presence of malic acid in purslane leaves affects the glucose levels thereby affect ing the taste of the leaves depending on the time of day. In the morning, malic acid is greater making the leaves sour-tasting. Prefer a zestier taste? Harvest your leaves in the morning. If you’re looking for a milder taste, harvest leaves in the late afternoon. 3
What is the most common purslane?
A member of the Portulacaceae family, the most common type of purslane is Portulaca oleracea. There are more than 50 types of purslane growing all around the world. While Portulaca oleracea is found growing all over the world, it grows particularly well in colder and temperate climates.
How to get rid of dirt on purslane?
Got some fresh leaves and stems? Fill your sink with cold water and gently swirl the purslane in the water to loosen dirt and debris. Seeds will come loose and sink to the bottom.
What are the nutrients in purslane?
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile of purslane: Jam-packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Purslane contains vitamins A, C and E. It also contains trace amounts of vitamins B1, B2, B3, copper, folate, and phosphorus. You’ll also find iron and calcium in purs lane.
What to do if you can't beat purslane?
If you can’t beat it, eat it. This is a great philosophy to live by if you have tried to control purslane with limited success. There are even cultivated varieties of purslane, but if you already have it invading your garden, start there for a new culinary adventure.
Can you pickle purslane?
You can even pickle purslane for a bright, peppery flavor. If you do decide to eat purslane from your yard or garden, wash it very well first. And avoid using pesticides and herbicides in your yard before you harvest the succulent leaves of this tasty weed.
Can you use purslane in salads?
Use it in salads, as greens in a sandwich, or as a green topping for tacos and soup. Purslane also stands up to some heat. When cooking with purslane, though, sauté gently; overcooking will make it slimy. You can even pickle purslane for a bright, peppery flavor.
Can you use purslane instead of spinach?
Using edible purslane plants, you can generally treat them like any other leafy green in your recipes, particularly as a substitute for spinach or watercress . The flavor is mild to sweet and slightly acidic. Nutritionally purslane contains omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamin C, several B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and high levels of vitamin A compared to other leafy greens.
Is purslane a good source of vitamin A?
Nutritionally purslane contains omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamin C, several B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and high levels of vitamin A compared to other leafy greens. The simplest way to enjoy purslane herbs in food is to eat it fresh and raw, any way you would spinach.
Is Purslane Safe to Eat?
Purslane is a pretty tough weed. Native to India and the Middle East, this weed has spread throughout the world. It is a succulent, so you’ll see fleshy little leaves. The stems grow low to the ground, nearly flat, and the plant produces yellow flowers. Some people describe purslane as looking like a baby jade plant. It grows in a range of soils and most heartily in hot, sunny areas. A common spot to see it is in cracks in the sidewalk or driveway.
What to serve with purslane?
– Process purslane with a little cream or yogurt and make a green sauce to drizzle over fish. – Serve as a side salad with wild salmon, lobster, or crab.
What is Purslane salad?
– Purslane and potato salad with capers or anchovies. – Purslane salad with chunks of peaches and fresh goat cheese, or with a peach dressing.
Where does Purslane come from?
Purslane has been consumed since ancient times, and because it grows easily in hot and not too dry climates, it is represented in many cuisines of the world, from Greece to Mexico, and from Turkey to India by way of South Africa. (Here’s a handy list of its aliases in different languages.)
Can you pickle purslane?
Although the stems are edible when still young (and can be pickled), cooks usually keep only the leaves and thin, spindly stems at the top, which are simply plucked from the central stem. The process is slow-going, but rewarding in the end. Because purslane grows so close to the earth, and especially if it is foraged*, it should be rinsed very well, in several baths of fresh water (I usually do three), with a bit of vinegar.
Can you cook dandelion root?
Didn't realize that you could cook it, have been drinking it in herbal tea's for years to keep it from taking over the garden. pare it with dandelion root and parsley or lemon balm and sometimes mint for a change in herbal tea and does help with keeping arthritis at bay.
Can purslane be cooked?
Purslane is mostly eaten raw, but can also be cooked for a change of pace. I’ve gathered 45 purslane recipes for you — and hope you’ll add your own favorites in the comments section! * Some people report that they find it growing from sidewalk cracks or in city parks, but I wouldn’t recommend foraging it from there.
Purslane, Cucumber, and Feta Salad
In this refreshing salad recipe, crunchy cucumbers and thinly sliced onions are tossed with fresh purslane, feta cheese, olive oil, and vinegar.
Purslane, Cherry Tomato, and Cucumber Salad
It couldn't be easier to make this gorgeous summer salad with just five fresh ingredients: cherry tomatoes, Persian cucumbers, salt, purslane, and olive oil.
Authentic Lebanese Fattoush
Here's a delicious, restaurant-worthy bread salad made with vibrant and fresh-tasting purslane and arugula. A bit of cornstarch in the dressing adds a welcome thickness and holds the ingredients together.
Purslane Pork Stew
Recipe creator Yoly calls this cozy pork shoulder stew "comfort food at its best." Tomatillos give this dish fresh-from-the-garden flavor, while Serrano peppers add irresistible heat.
Dana's Greek Salad
Lettuce, purslane, cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese are layered artfully on a serving plate, then drizzled with a simple lemon-basil dressing seasoned with oregano and garlic.
More Inspiration
Try Our Most Colorful Recipes to Make With Fresh Summer Produce. Plus, explore our entire collection of Recipes With Summer Fruits and Vegetables .
How to use purslane in a salad?
Here are some ways you can include purslane in your diet: Add purslane to soups. Sauté purslane as a side dish. Chop purslane and add it to salads for color. Mix purslane into grilled vegetables. Use purslane as a garnish. Sprinkle purslane flowers on fish as a point of interest. Pagination. 1.
What is Purslane good for?
Purslane has vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can provide important health benefits. For example, vitamin A helps your eyes remain healthy as well as improve your immune system. Vitamin A is also critical to the health of your organs because it supports healthy cell division.
Why is purslane salty?
Purslane also tends to be saltier than other vegetables because of its succulent nature. People who prefer low-salt diets should watch their purslane intake to avoid consuming too much salt.
Is Purslane good for collagen?
Purslane is also rich in vitamin C, which is important to keep your collagen and blood vessels in good shape, as well as helping injuries heal.
Can purslane be eaten?
Any purslane plant can be harvested and eaten, as the leaves, stems, and flowers are completely edible. When preparing wild purslane, it’s important to wash the plant carefully to ensure that no pesticides are on the leaves.
Does purslane cause kidney stones?
Purslane contains oxalates, which have been linked to the formation of kidney stones. People prone to kidney stones should be careful when eating purslane, especially the seeds. Purslane seeds tend to have higher levels of oxalates than other parts of the plant.
Does Purslane help with osteoporosis?
Getting enough of both of these minerals can improve skeletal health and prevent complications from osteoporosis and aging. Continued. Nutrition. Purslane is rich in folate, which aids in safe cell division and promotes DNA duplication.
What is purslane loaded with?
In fact, purslane is loaded with all sorts of nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids.
What are the benefits of purslane?
Purslane is rich in various antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds: 1 Vitamin C: Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is an antioxidant that is essential for the maintenance of skin, muscles and bone ( 7 ). 2 Vitamin E: It contains high levels of a form of vitamin E called alpha-tocopherol. It may protect cell membranes from damage ( 7, 8 ). 3 Vitamin A: It contains beta-carotene, an antioxidant that the body turns into vitamin A. Vitamin A is best known for its role in eye health ( 7 ). 4 Glutathione: This important antioxidant may protect cells from damage ( 7, 9 ). 5 Melatonin: It also contains melatonin, a hormone that can help you fall asleep. It also has several other benefits ( 10 ). 6 Betalain: It synthesizes betalains, antioxidants that have been shown to protect low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles from damage ( 11, 12, 13 ).
How many calories are in Purslane?
It also contains small amounts of vitamins B1, B2, B3, folate, copper and phosphorus. You get all of these nutrients with only 16 calories! This makes it one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, calorie for calorie. Purslane is a a weed that grows in many parts of the world.
How much ALA is in spinach?
Compared to other greens, it is exceptionally high in ALA. It contains 5-7 times more ALA than spinach ( 6, 7 ).
What is the scientific name for Portulaca oleracea?
It is known scientifically as Portulaca oleracea, and is also called pigweed, little hogweed, fatweed and pusley.
Is purslane a good antioxidant?
Purslane is Loaded with Antioxidants. Purslane is rich in various antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds: Vitamin C: Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is an antioxidant that is essential for the maintenance of skin, muscles and bone ( 7. Trusted Source. ).
Is Purslane a green?
Purslane is much higher in omega-3 fatty acids than other greens. It contains high amounts of ALA, but also trace amounts of EPA, a more biologically active form of omega-3.
How to cook purslane?
How to Cook (Plus Recipes) Like other leafy green veggies, once you pull purslane out of the dirt by its root, you can easily prepare it for eating. Just cut off the root and wash the stems, being sure to get inside the little crevices that tend to hold soil.
What is the best way to grow purslane?
When selecting purslane seeds or plants, the most important consideration is choosing a plant that’s been grown in organic soil and hasn’t been contaminated with toxic herbicides or pesticides. If you are picking the stems and leaves from your own yard or garden, make sure not to spray your property with dangerous chemicals, and always clean the plant thoroughly before eating.
What Is Purslane?
Purslane, or Portulaca oleracea, is a garden plant that goes by many names, including duckweed, fatweed and pursley. Can you eat purslane, and is all purslane edible? Most people consider purslane a weed, but it’s actually loaded with health-promoting nutrients. So if you’re wondering how to get rid of purslane in your garden — you eat it!
How long does it take for Purslane to grow?
How to Grow and Use. Purslane can grow anywhere that has at least a two-month growing season . For many, it pops up in their gardens come springtime without any effort. It’s resistant to drought and can endure the hot summer months. You may notice that it grows quickly and spreads easily, which can be a bit invasive.
How many calories are in purslane?
The plant is rich in disease-fighting antioxidants and offers plant-based omega-3 fatty acids. It also boasts a handful of important minerals. 100 grams of raw purslane contains about: 16 calories. 3.4 grams carbohydrates.
Where did purslane come from?
Immigrants from India are believed to have brought purslane with them to North America, where it eventually spread into gardens across the land. Today, many varieties of purslane under several names grow in a wide range of climates and regions.
When to freeze purslane?
If you want to make sure you’ll have purslane available after the summer months, try freezing it and adding it to warming soups, stews and casseroles during the fall and winter seasons.
What are the benefits of purslane?
This report from The Center for Genetics, Nutrition and Health tells in depth about the nutritional benefits of purslane and other wild plants: Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Antioxidants in Edible Wild Plants.
What is purslane used for?
Medicinal Uses of Purslane 1 Purslane is regarded as a cooling herb and is suggested for help with fevers and inflammatory conditions. 2 Some recommended it for skin problems, similar to the use of aloe vera.
What is purslane's binomial name?
The binomial name for purslane is Portulaca oleracea. Portulaca is Latin, coming from portula, which means "gate," in reference to the gate-like covering of the seed capsule. Oleracea is also Latin and means "kitchen vegetable.". The Spanish name for purslane is verdolaga, while another English name for it is "pigweed.".
What is purslane in Spanish?
In Spanish, purslane is called verdolaga, and I saw several Mexican recipes that used it as an ingredient. I also just discovered that purslane is call khorfeh in Iran, and it is featured in Persian dishes. And reader Wafeek informs us that purslane is used in a Lebanese dish called fatoosh.
How to tell if a spurge is purslane?
The foolproof way to differentiate between the two is by breaking a stem. The stem of the spurge oozes a milky white sap. If there is white sap, it is not purslane!
Where does Purslane grow?
Purslane tends to grow close to the ground in dense patches that spread wide.
Where did purslane originate?
There is controversy about whether purslane is native to North America or was carried over. But some research suggests that the American Indians were eating it before they made contact with Europeans.
