There’s nothing quite like the feeling of going out to your garden and picking fresh produce to add to your meal. But what if I told you that some of the plants growing in your garden may actually be edible weeds? That’s right, those pesky little plants that you’ve been trying to get rid of might actually be a tasty addition to your next meal.
Before you start munching on every plant in your garden, it’s important to do some research and make sure that the weed you’re about to eat is actually safe and edible. Some common edible weeds that you might find in your garden include coatbuttons or tridax procumbens, purslane, and wild mustard.
Once you’ve identified an edible weed, the next step is to figure out how to prepare it. Dandelion leaves can be used in salads, while chickweed can be added to soups or stews. Purslane can be eaten fresh in your salad, sautéed with garlic and onions, and lamb’s quarters can be used in place of spinach in recipes.
Not only are edible weeds a tasty addition to your meals, but they also offer a variety of health benefits. Coatbuttons leaves are high in calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium and selenium while purslane is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Wild mustard is cholesterol-free food. It is 25% protein and rich in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin B.
So the next time you’re out in your garden, take a closer look at the plants growing there. You might just discover a new and delicious addition to your meals, all while reaping the health benefits of these edible weeds.
Mosaic 