Purslane is tastier than meat! Neighbors from Turkey taught me how to cook weed.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Purslane: Start by washing the purslane thoroughly, as it can have some dirt trapped in between the leaves. Trim any tough stems and chop it into smaller pieces.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Tomato: Toss in the diced tomato and cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the tomato to break down and form a chunky sauce. Add the paprika and red pepper flakes at this stage if you want a little extra spice and depth of flavor.
4. Cook the Purslane: Now, add the chopped purslane leaves to the pan. Stir to combine, and cook for about 5 minutes. The purslane will release some moisture and shrink down. If you want a softer texture, you can add a little bit of water or vegetable broth, letting it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
5. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and squeeze a little lemon juice over the top before serving. The acidity of the lemon really helps bring out the bright, tangy flavors of the purslane.
6. Optional Add-Ins: If you want to make this dish even more substantial, you can add some grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpeas for protein.

Other Ways to Enjoy Purslane

Purslane is incredibly versatile and can be used in many different ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Salads: Use fresh purslane leaves as a base for a salad. Its crisp texture and tangy flavor make it a fantastic addition to mixed greens. Try pairing it with feta cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.
• Purslane with Eggs: Sauté purslane with garlic and onions, then add eggs to scramble or fry. The purslane adds a wonderful burst of flavor and freshness that makes the dish feel light yet filling.
• Stews and Soups: Add purslane to soups or stews to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Its slight tanginess works particularly well in rich, hearty dishes like lentil soup or a Mediterranean-style vegetable stew.
• Purslane Pesto: Replace basil with purslane in a pesto recipe for a unique twist. Blend it with garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a fresh, vibrant sauce to serve with pasta, grilled vegetables, or meat dishes.

Why You Should Try Purslane

Purslane offers a perfect balance of taste, texture, and nutrition, making it a valuable addition to any diet. It’s an affordable, easy-to-grow green that’s available in many gardens, and it’s packed with health benefits like antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and E.

By incorporating purslane into your meals, you’re not only adding a nutrient-dense food to your plate, but you’re also exploring a new culinary world full of vibrant flavors and endless possibilities. Plus, the fact that it’s a “weed” makes it even more intriguing – it’s like uncovering a hidden gem in the world of food!

So, whether you find it growing in your garden or at a local farmer’s market, give purslane a try. Who knows? It might just become your new favorite leafy green!