Growing Nopales
Nopales are edible cactus pads originally grown in Mexico. This easy-to-grow crop is drought and pest-resistant. The plants are grown by rooting the leaf pads that remain viable for weeks without drying out. It grows in pots or the ground and is effortlessly maintained in a small space. This edible variety has thin, soft, spineless pads that are easier to handle. However, it may have some tiny spines, so use garden and cooking gloves when handling it.
Nutritional value
Nopales are used in Mexican cuisine and herbal remedies. It is high in fibre, vitamins A, B, C, and elements such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and iron. The fruits are smaller than the prickly pear, so they are rarely used but add beauty to the garden.
Selecting and preparing Nopales
The fresher, more turgid, firm pads are easier to handle. Cut off the edges, especially at the point of attachment to the plant, which is more fibrous and tough. The cactus pads have a mucilaginous texture (like okra) when wet or when boiling. Draining the water after boiling, rinsing and drying them before use prevents the slimy texture. Others recommend adding tomatillo husk during boiling. The spines must be scraped off before use with a knife, fish descaler, or potato peeler.
Nopales Dishes
Nopales can be eaten raw in salads, grilled and served with cheese. The boiled pieces are used in soups, stews, pickles, and omelettes. Their mild, slightly sour, lemony flavour makes them ideal in pickles, sauces, smoothies and salads. The mucilaginous pieces may be used to thicken soups and stews. The nopales pickles are an excellent addition to Shawarmas, tacos and other savoury pastry dishes.
Nopales as part of a Healthy diet
Seasoning with ginger, celery and mushroom herb makes a meaty textured relish that reduces the amount of meat in the food, which is good news for meat lovers who still crave the flavour and texture of meat dishes. Nopales are a great addition to our subtropical Urban garden and kitchen. I would recommend experimenting with this versatile vegetable. Consider using your favourite herbs and spices and substituting dishes that use green beans, okra, asparagus, meat and mushrooms. #LoveHomeGrown
