Purslane, a resilient and nutritious leafy green, is not only a great addition to summer meals but can also be enjoyed during the colder months if stored properly. Here’s how to preserve purslane so you can enjoy its fresh, tangy flavor even in winter:

How to Store Purslane for Winter

1. Cleaning and Preparing:

• Begin by thoroughly washing the purslane to remove any dirt and debris.

• Pat the leaves dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent spoilage during storage.

2. Blanching:

• Blanching is an effective method to preserve the color, texture, and nutrients of purslane.

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Meanwhile, prepare a bowl of ice water.

• Place the purslane in the boiling water for about 1-2 minutes, then quickly transfer it to the ice water to halt the cooking process.

• Drain the purslane thoroughly after it has cooled.

3. Freezing:

• Freezing is the best way to store purslane for long periods. After blanching and cooling your purslane:

  • Lay the purslane out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure the leaves and stems are not clumped together. This step prevents the pieces from sticking together in the freezer.

  • Place the baking sheet in the freezer for a few hours until the purslane is fully frozen.

  • Once frozen, transfer the purslane to airtight freezer bags or containers. Label them with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.

4. Drying:

• Drying purslane is another storage method, ideal for using in soups, stews, and teas.

• You can use a dehydrator set to a low temperature (around 95°F or 35°C) to dry the purslane until it is completely moisture-free. This process can take several hours.

• Alternatively, hang bunches of purslane in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once dried, store the leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

5. Refrigerating:

• For short-term storage, refrigeration is suitable. After washing and drying the leaves:

  • Wrap the purslane in a damp paper towel and place it in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer.

  • This method will keep the purslane fresh for about a week.

Tips for Using Stored Purslane

• From Frozen: Directly add frozen purslane to cooked dishes like soups, stews, or stir-fries. There’s no need to thaw it as it will cook quickly in the dish.

• From Dried: Rehydrate dried purslane by soaking it in water for a few hours before using it in your recipes.

By following these methods, you can enjoy the health benefits and unique taste of purslane all year round. Whether added to winter soups or used as a nutritious boost in smoothies, stored purslane is a versatile ingredient that brings summer’s freshness to your winter table.