If you’ve never tried purslane before, get ready to be surprised! This humble green — often considered a weed — is actually one of the most nutritious, flavorful, and versatile plants you can eat. My neighbors from Turkey showed me how they prepare it, and ever since, I’ve been hooked! It’s tender, lemony, and full of life — and yes, tastier than meat when cooked right.
Let’s discover why this plant deserves a special place on your table and how to cook it the traditional Turkish way. 🇹🇷✨
🌿 What Is Purslane?
Purslane (known as semizotu in Turkey) is a leafy green packed with omega-3 fatty acids, iron, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and E. It’s amazing for your heart, skin, and immune system — and it’s completely natural.
Its slightly tangy, refreshing flavor makes it a perfect ingredient for salads, soups, and warm dishes.
🍽️ Turkish-Style Purslane Recipe (Semizotu Yemeği)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh purslane, washed and chopped (use leaves and tender stems)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, diced (or 1 tablespoon tomato paste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons rice (optional, for texture)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup water or vegetable broth
- A squeeze of lemon juice
👩🍳 How to Make It
- In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft and golden.
- Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomato or tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the purslane and rice (if using), then pour in the water or broth.
- Season with salt and pepper, cover, and let it simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes, until the rice is soft and the purslane tender.
- Turn off the heat and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Serve warm or at room temperature with a drizzle of olive oil — it’s delicious either way!
💚 Why You’ll Love It
✅ Light, filling, and full of flavor
✅ Packed with nutrients and antioxidants
✅ Naturally rich in healthy fats
✅ Great for digestion and heart health
✅ 100% plant-based — yet incredibly satisfying
✨ A Turkish Secret Worth Keeping
Once you taste this Turkish-style purslane dish, you’ll understand why so many Mediterranean families adore it.
It’s fresh, tangy, and comforting — proof that healthy food can be simple and mouthwatering. After just one bite, you’ll say it too:
💬 “Purslane is even tastier than meat!” 🥬🍋
