Geeky Cat Miusings

Edible cactus is also known as nopales (no-PAH-les) or sometimes as cactus pads. It can be found at Mexican grocery stores and it must also be available in specialty produce markets in Toronto because the salad at Dos Amigos had strips of cactus. I believe edible cactus comes from the prickly pear cactus. I’m not sure if there are other types of edible cactus.

While cactus pads are exciting to eat due to the novelty factor they are also good for you. The pads contain beta carotene, iron, some B vitamins, and are good sources of both vitamin C and calcium.

If you can’t find edible cactus, it is also sold as canned — pickled or packed in water or acitrones — candied nopales, packed in sugar syrup and available in cans or jars.

Apparently, edible cactus can be eaten raw or cooked. To cook, steam over boiling water for just a few minutes. Then slice and eat! Cactus can also be cut and sautéed in butter or oil for a few minutes. Steamed cactus can be added to scrambled eggs and omelets, or diced fresh and added to tortillas.