Purslane, with its crisp texture and lemony flavor, is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a burst of nutrition and taste. If you’ve fallen in love with this leafy green during its peak season and want to enjoy it even when the weather turns cold, storing it properly is key. Here’s how you can preserve purslane so that it remains fresh and flavorful throughout the winter months.

Why Store Purslane?

Purslane is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and several B vitamins, as well as dietary minerals. Storing purslane allows you to continue reaping these health benefits even when it’s not growing season.

Best Methods to Store Purslane for Winter

1. Freezing Purslane

Freezing is one of the easiest and most effective ways to preserve the freshness of purslane. Here’s how to do it:

• Wash and Dry: Thoroughly wash the purslane to remove any dirt or grit. Pat it dry with a clean towel.

• Blanch: Blanch the leaves and tender stems in boiling water for about two minutes to preserve their color, nutrients, and flavor.

• Cool Down: Immediately plunge the blanched purslane into ice water to stop the cooking process.

• Drain and Pack: Drain the purslane well and pack it in airtight freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

• Freeze: Place the bags in the freezer. Frozen purslane can be used directly in cooked dishes like soups and stews.

2. Drying Purslane

Drying is another great way to store purslane, especially if you want to use it as a seasoning or tea:

• Clean and Arrange: After washing and drying the purslane, arrange the leaves and stems in a single layer on a drying rack or baking sheet.

• Air Dry or Use an Oven: You can air dry purslane in a warm, well-ventilated area, or use an oven set to the lowest temperature. Turn the leaves occasionally until they are completely dry and crumbly.

• Store: Once dry, crumble the purslane and store it in an airtight container. Dried purslane can be steeped in hot water for tea or ground into powder to add to smoothies.

Enjoying Stored Purslane

When ready to use, frozen purslane works wonderfully in cooked dishes, where it can be added directly from the freezer into the pot. Dried purslane makes an excellent herbal addition to dishes or drinks where you want a touch of its unique flavor and nutrients.

A Tasty Tip

Remember, the flavor of purslane can intensify when dried, so start with a small amount to see how it complements your dishes..