Edible weeds- Purslane

If you are serious about eating cheap and healthy then it is time to learn about the food that is all around you and will not cost you a single penny.

You will need to invest some time in harvesting it and before you harvest you will need to educate yourself about what you are planning to eat.

After all it is not wise to step out into your backyard or an abandoned lot and simply pick yourself a salad or something for a stir fry unless you know what you are picking.

Some of the plants we call weeds provide a cornucopia of nutrition and flavour and for the most part they are out there waiting to be harvested.

Plant identification is vital here, you really must know what you are about to put in your mouth. A good field guide that details edible wild plants is important. Do your homework before eating anything.

The second thing is know the site where you are about to harvest. If it is your yard and you do not use any chemicals on the site then pick and wash, unless you live in a heavily industrial area or have next door neighbours who spray.

Abandoned lots are often full of weeds and some will be edible but what was there before the lot was abandoned?

One of the more common edible plants that is likely to be in your lawn is Purslane (Portulaca oleracea). Purslane likes to pop up in cultivated fields in cultivated soils throughout Canada and the United States.

In the summer you will have little difficulty in finding a steady supply, if your urban hunting grounds are gardens, flower beds and even planters.

Or if you are venturing out in the country for a walk then keep your eyes open.

Purslane will stand out as its thick red stalks will be laying on the ground; the noticeable stalks and the fleshy, small leaves will remind you of a succulent but Purslane is a hardy annual that produces seeds prolifically.

The tender tips are what you are after, harvest them, They can measure anywhere from one to eight inches.

Purslane can be sautéed in butter with mushrooms, for example or you can add it to salads or soups.

Purslane is a great place to begin your wild food adventure or if you are already on that path and are familiar with other readily available foods such as lambs quarters and dandelions, purslane will make an excellent addition to your menu.