Purslane Indian Recipes: Easy and Flavorful Dishes to Try

Purslane, known for its slightly tangy and succulent leaves, is a versatile green that holds a cherished place in Indian kitchens. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and packed with vitamins, purslane is not only nutritious but also adds a unique flavor to traditional dishes.

Indian recipes with purslane range from simple stir-fries to hearty curries, each bringing out the best in this humble plant. Whether you’re a fan of comforting dals or vibrant salads, purslane can elevate your meal with its fresh, lemony zest and nourishing qualities.

In a spot on your dining table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Purslane Indian recipes are beloved for their unique taste and health benefits. The leaves have a refreshing tang that complements the warm spices typical of Indian cuisine.

These dishes are not only flavorful but also incredibly nutritious, offering a boost of antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, and essential omega-3 fatty acids.

Additionally, purslane is easy to source and cooks quickly, making these recipes perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish, a curry, or mixed into dals and sambars, purslane adds a delightful twist to your traditional meals.

These recipes also adapt well for vegan and vegetarian diets, guaranteeing everyone at the table can enjoy them.

Ingredients

• Fresh purslane leaves – 2 cups, washed and chopped
• Mustard seeds – 1 tsp
• Cumin seeds – 1 tsp
• Turmeric powder – ½ tsp
• Red chili powder – ½ tsp (adjust to taste)
• Asafoetida (hing) – a pinch
• Green chilies – 2, slit
• Grated coconut – 2 tbsp (optional, for garnish)
• Salt – to taste
• Oil – 2 tbsp (preferably mustard oil or vegetable oil)
• Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish
• Water – ¼ cup

Equipment

• Non-stick or heavy-bottomed frying pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Bowl for washing & soaking purslane

Instructions

1. Prepare the purslane: Rinse the purslane leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Drain and chop them roughly, keeping the stems if tender.
2. Heat oil in a pan: Place your frying pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil.
3. Add mustard and cumin seeds: Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds and 1 teaspoon cumin seeds. Let them splutter for about 30 seconds.
4. Introduce spices and aromatics: Add a pinch of asafoetida, the slit green chilies, ½ teaspoon turmeric powder, and ½ teaspoon red chili powder. Stir for a few seconds to release their flavors.
5. Cook purslane: Add the chopped purslane leaves to the pan. Stir well to coat the leaves with the spices.
6. Add water and salt: Pour in ¼ cup of water and add salt to taste. Cover the pan and let the purslane cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the leaves are tender and cooked down.
7. Finish and garnish: Once the purslane is cooked and the water has mostly evaporated, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated coconut (optional) and chopped coriander leaves on top. Give it a final stir.
8. Serve hot: Remove from heat and serve immediately with warm roti, rice, or as a side vegetable with your favorite Indian meal.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Use fresh purslane for the best flavor. If you can’t find it fresh, frozen purslane can be used but may lose some texture.

Variation: Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for an extra tangy punch.

Variation: For a heartier dish, mix purslane into cooked lentils (dal) or add it to vegetable stews.

Tip: Mustard oil adds an authentic pungency to the dish, but you can substitute with any neutral oil if preferred.

Tip: For a South Indian twist, temper with curry leaves and mustard seeds, and add a pinch of jaggery to balance the flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Purslane dishes are wonderfully versatile and pair excellently with Indian staples. Serve your purslane stir-fry alongside fragrant basmati rice and dal for a wholesome meal.

It also complements Indian breads such as chapati, paratha, or even poori.

For a light lunch, try mixing cooked purslane into a grain bowl with quinoa or millet, fresh cucumber, and a drizzle of yogurt or vegan raita. You can also serve it as a side with curries like Classic Vegetarian Indian Vegetable Curry Recipes to Try Today for a vibrant, nutrient-rich plate.

If you love experimenting with greens, check out the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for another refreshing plant-based dish.

More Delicious Purslane Indian Recipes to Try

Purslane and Moong Dal Curry

Combine tender purslane leaves with yellow moong dal in a simple, comforting curry. The dal’s creamy texture balances the tangy greens beautifully.

Purslane Paratha (Indian Flatbread)

Incorporate finely chopped purslane into whole wheat dough for nutritious stuffed parathas. Serve with yogurt or pickle for a satisfying meal.

Purslane Sambhar

Add purslane to traditional tamarind-based sambhar, a South Indian lentil stew, for extra nutrition and a fresh twist on this beloved dish.

Purslane Chutney

Blend purslane with coconut, green chilies, and spices into a vibrant chutney that pairs well with dosa, idli, or rice.

Dry Purslane Stir-fry (Poriyal)

This dry vegetable side dish is lightly sautéed with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut — perfect for a simple accompaniment to rice.

For more inspiration on healthy and delicious Indian meals, explore 400 Calorie Vegetarian Dinner Recipe Ideas for Healthy Meals and Active Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy and Energized Living.

Conclusion

Purslane Indian recipes offer a delightful way to add variety, nutrition, and flavor to your cooking repertoire. This humble green, often overlooked, shines when paired with familiar Indian spices and ingredients.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a simple stir-fry, a wholesome curry, or a flavorful paratha stuffing, purslane brings a fresh, tangy brightness that complements any meal.

Embracing purslane in your diet not only enhances your meals but also supports a nutrient-rich, plant-based lifestyle. With easy preparation and minimal ingredients, these recipes are perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

So next time you find purslane at the market or in your garden, give these Indian recipes a try and savor the unique taste and health benefits of this wonderful green.

For more creative plant-based recipes, don’t forget to check out our other favorites like Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals and Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food. Happy cooking!

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