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Purslane - the Forgotten Vegetable

7/7/2013

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I've been neglecting my garden, so I made a determined effort to get out and at least clear the tomatoes. I was delighted to see a healthy crop of purslane was attempting to take over my garden. Many people look at this plant as a weed, which is unfortunate. It's considered a vegetable in many cultures, can be eaten raw, steamed, and stir-fried. It's great roughage and extremely nutritious AND it has a very mild flavor. It's been compared to spinach.
I first learn about it years ago during one of my herb classes. I ran into it again later when I learned about my high cholesterol levels. It was recommended for its Omega 3 content. It's also high in vitamins C and A. 
The best part is that it shows up EVERYWHERE! I let it grow last year and this year I'm harvesting more than I can eat. 
Look for a low lying plant with fleshy leaves along thick stems. It grows in any kind of soil, though it seems to be particularly fond of my garden soil, and it takes off near the end of June. The flowers are small, yellow blooms. Next time you see it, don't be so fast to yank it out, or at least save the plants you pull for your next salad!

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My harvest!
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Purslane in bloom.
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    Author

    Jodee Steffensen
    AKA 
    J.D. Steffensen

    PictureJodee (J.D.) Steffensen
     Historical and Romance Writer, Amateur Herbalist, and Seeker of adventure, new knowledge and all things good!


    Hobbies?  I've adored cats all my life. I came to love Shakespeare when I was introduced to him in college.  I developed an interest in herbs when a dear friend was diagnosed with cancer. I learned about the complex politics of Shakespeare's world when another friend gave me a book, "Shadow Play," by Clare Asquith. 



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