Purslane Salad: A Delicious & Healthy Omega-3 Rich Side Dish
How to Make Purslane Salad: A Nutritious Side Dish Packed with Omega-3s
Discover a unique and healthy side dish made with fresh, seasonal purslane. This recipe highlights the rich omega-3 content and numerous health benefits of purslane.
Ingredients- 1 bunch Purslane
- A pinch of coarse sea salt (for blanching)
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Vinegar
- 1/2 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Minced garlic
- A little Oyster sauce
- 1 Tbsp Sesame oil
- A little Toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by carefully trimming the purslane. Remove any tough stems, though most of the plant is quite tender and requires minimal preparation.
Step 2
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of coarse sea salt. Once the water is boiling, briefly blanch the prepared purslane for a short time.
Step 3
Blanch the purslane for approximately 40 seconds. This duration is perfect for achieving a tender yet slightly crisp texture.
Step 4
Immediately after blanching, rinse the purslane under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Gently squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Properly draining is key to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Step 5
Purslane is naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can give it a slightly mucilaginous texture when handled. This is a sign of beneficial compounds, so avoid over-washing it in an attempt to remove this natural characteristic.
Step 6
Now, let’s prepare the flavorful dressing for your purslane salad. In a bowl, combine the gochujang, minced garlic, sugar, oyster sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds. Mix well. The balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors is essential.
Step 7
Add the well-drained purslane to the prepared dressing. Gently toss and mix until the purslane is evenly coated with the seasoning. Ensure every piece is well-seasoned for the best taste.
Step 8
Congratulations, your healthy and delicious purslane salad is ready! Purslane is exceptionally rich in omega-3s and also packed with nutrients like iron, saponins, potassium, and vitamins C, E, and A. It’s known to aid in preventing constipation and diabetes, cleanse blood vessels to improve brain function, and help lower cholesterol levels. Enjoy this wonderful dish for a boost of health!
