PURSLANE
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea), which is commonly regarded as a
troublesome garden weed today, has been used as a succulent food
crop for more than 2000 years. The plant is native to the area of
India and Persia, from which it has spread to Europe, the
America's, and almost every other corner of the world. The reason
for its worldwide distribution is two fold; first the plant is
prolific, second if cooked properly it's delicious.
My favourite recipe comes from Mexico, where purslane is called
"Verdolagas" and is sold in most markets as a potherb.
Pick the tender young leaves and stems, wash well and chop
coarsely, then stew - cook (or Microwave) until tender. This
recipe calls for one to two cups of cooked purslane. Do not
overcook, purslane will become very "slippery" if cooked too
long. Then, separately, make a chile sauce by heating 3
tablespoons of olive oil and brown 3 tablespoons of flour.
To the browned flour add 2 cups of vegetable broth, 2 tablespoons
of chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder.
Stir well and simmer for about 10 minutes, if you wish you can
thicken the chile sauce with a little corn starch. After the
sauce is ready add the cooked, chopped purslane (one to two
cups), and one cup of grated Monterey Jack or Colby cheese.
Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt,
then serve at once, Enjoy!
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