What Is Purslane? Perhaps you have run into purslane and not even known it! Learn all about this little green leafy plant, how it can be used and some surprising nutritional benefits packed in.
Purslane, also known as Portulaca oleracea, is a small green leafy plant that contains surprising nutritional value. This plant is also sometimes referred to as pigweed, little hogweed, fatweed and pusley. It, with its many health benefits, might surprise you at all the places it grows and how common it really is.
What It Is
What is Purslane? Purslane is a small green leafy plant, that has small oval leaves and can be found in a range of colors from a dark green to more of a yellow-green shade. It’s best known as a weed, however it is also a type of succulent plant. You can usually find this plant growing amongst flowers in most flower beds, or in with vegetables in a garden. While many people think of it as a weed, it can be grown as a vegetable. Purslane can be found growing all around the world in many different environments and soil types. Some companies have even begun to sell purslane in seed form so that people can grow it on purpose.
Health Benefits
Why might you want to grow purslane, on purpose at home? This plant is known to contain high levels of antioxidants, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids and other plant components that are very good for you. It is also a good source of vitamins C, E and A.
How to Harvest
No matter if you are trying to grow purslane on purpose, or if you are simply harvesting a self sprouted plant, you can still enjoy its many benefits and tastiness. To harvest the plant, simply pull the whole plant up and cut off the roots. You will not want to eat the roots, they can be given to your chickens if you have any, or simply thrown in the garbage. The plant can then be washed, chopped and incorporated into food preparation.
Purslane Is Good In…
How do you cook with purslane? This plant is good in many different kinds of foods. It helps to brighten flavoring by adding a mild, fresh but slightly tart taste. This green has been duped, “poor man’s spinach” because it really tastes like spinach and can be used in a similar manner when prepared in food. A few ideas for you to incorporate it into your menu would be to include it in: salads, soups, omelets or even as part of smoothies or healthy juices.
Purslane commonly known as a weed is actually packed full of great things for you. It is similar to spinach but can be found growing wild or intentionally. There are many different ways you can incorporate purslane into your diet. Give it a try today!
What is your favorite way to prepare purslane?
Try this delicious recipe for Parsnip Parmesan Parsley And Lemon Salad. Also learn more about What Is Cointreau? Be sure to stay up to date on our most recent articles, to help you be kitchen smart!
