Purslane

Hi there,

One of this blog's original purposes was to help people figure out what those "weird" farmers' market ingredients were, and what to do with them.  Today I'm featuring purslane - which is somewhere between a green and an herb.  I bought some at the MPC Farmers' Market last week from Four Sisters Farm, in Aromas, CA. 

It's got small, round leaves on a fairly crispy stem that gets tougher as it gets thicker.  The little leaves are very lemony and tart when it's very fresh.  I've noticed after a few days in the fridge, the flavor is less pronounced.  I would be most likely to chop it up very finely and put it into a vinaigrette or a salad, or to use it as a garnish with seafood.  It is definitely tasty and something you'll want to add to your culinary repertoire when it's available.

Until next time, I'll see you at the market!