Purslane
Purslane is a common garden weed that is probably the most nutritious item in your garden. It originally came from India and escaped into backyards everywhere. It has fourteen times the Omega-3 fatty acids of spinach as well as six times the vitamin E. Its betacarotene levels are seven times higher than carrots.
It starts out small.
Grows bigger.
And will spread out nicely if allowed.
I will often let it grow in between rows of other things or in spaces where the germination of a crop isn’t good. When I pick it, I cut off the root and collect it in a bowl.
Then I wash it very carefully. This is one plant that has crevices where dirt likes to hide so I take some time and do it well.
Purslane can then be juiced or steamed lightly and served with butter and sea salt. It is delicious. It also makes a lovely garnish. What a treat to find such a wonderful volunteer!
And here I have been pulling it and tossing in the trash. I will have to give this a try.
It grows quickly and will give people something to eat early in the season. We just had some for lunch and I put quite a lot in the bone broth soup that I am making to give it extra vitamins and minerals.