19 Mexican Pickled Cactus Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Apr 28, 2024
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful addition to your next fiesta, look no further than this delicious Mexican pickled cactus recipe. Commonly known as "nopales," cactus paddles are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are packed with nutrients and health benefits. In this article, we'll walk you through a simple and professional method for pickling cactus at home, so you can bring a taste of Mexico to your own kitchen.
Main Ingredients: Dried Ancho Chiles, Cactus Paddles, Canola Oil, Yellow
Indulge in the flavors of the Southwest with this delicious cactus casserole recipe. Layers of tender cactus, ground beef, and cheese are baked together for a hearty and satisfying meal. The addition of spicy jalapeños adds a nice kick to this dish, making it perfect for a summer barbecue or game day gathering.
This classic Mexican dish is elevated with the addition of cactus paddles. The tender and slightly tangy cactus adds a unique flavor to the traditional ground beef and vegetable mixture. Serve over rice or with warm tortillas for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
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Ensalada de Nopales
Main Ingredients: Cactus, Water, Salt, Tomato, Onion, Jalapeno, Cilantro
This refreshing and healthy salad is a staple in Mexican cuisine. The cactus paddles are cooked until tender and then combined with tomatoes, onions, and fresh cilantro. A zesty lime dressing ties all the flavors together for a light and satisfying dish.
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Costillas Con Nopalitos (Beef Ribs With Cactus)
Main Ingredients: Avocado Oil, Chile Negro, Tomatillo, Garlic, White
This mouthwatering dish combines tender beef ribs with cactus paddles for a flavorful and hearty meal. The ribs are slow-cooked until fall-off-the-bone tender and then topped with a homemade barbecue sauce. The addition of pickled cactus on the side adds a tangy and delicious twist.
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Nopalitos en Vinagré (Pickled Cactus)
Main Ingredients: Grapeseed Oil, Carrots, Onion, Garlic, Jalapeno
Take your taste buds on a trip to Mexico with this pickled cactus recipe. The cactus paddles are thinly sliced and marinated in a sweet and tangy vinegar mixture. Serve as a side dish or add to tacos or salads for a burst of flavor.
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The Cactus Pineapple Smoothie (Licuado de Nopal)- The...
Main Ingredients: Fresh Pineapple, Cactus, Ground Tumeric, Orange Juice
Start your day off right with this healthy and delicious smoothie featuring cactus paddles and sweet pineapple. The addition of coconut milk gives this smoothie a rich and creamy texture, while the cactus adds a boost of vitamins and nutrients. Perfect for a refreshing breakfast or snack.
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( Cactus Salad with Fresh Beans)
Main Ingredients: Cactus, Pinto Beans, Roma Tomatoes, Onion, Cilantro
This colorful and flavorful salad is the perfect side dish for any meal. Tender cactus paddles are combined with fresh beans, tangy tomatoes, and crisp bell peppers. A homemade vinaigrette dressing ties all the flavors together for a healthy and satisfying dish.
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Cactus and Corn Salsa
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Cactus Paddles, Green Tomatoes, White Onion
Switch up your usual salsa routine with this unique and delicious recipe. The cactus paddles are cooked until tender and then combined with roasted corn, spicy jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Serve with chips or use as a topping for tacos or salads.
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Mexican Pintos with Cactus
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Salt, Bacon, Cactus Leaves, Jalapeno
Take your pinto beans to the next level with the addition of cactus paddles. The cactus adds a unique flavor and texture to this classic dish. Serve as a side or use as a filling for tacos or burritos for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Grilled Cactus Salad (Ensalada de Nopales Asados)
Main Ingredients: Cactus Paddles, Limes Juiced, Olive Oil, Salt, Black
Fire up the grill for this flavorful and easy salad recipe. The cactus paddles are grilled until slightly charred and then combined with tangy lime juice, spicy jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. The perfect side dish for any summer barbecue.
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Cancun Green Juice
Main Ingredients: Pineapple Juice, Orange Juice, Cactus, Celery, Parsley
Get a boost of vitamins and nutrients with this healthy and refreshing green juice. The addition of cactus paddles adds a unique flavor and anti-inflammatory properties, making this a powerful and beneficial drink. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or post-workout recovery.
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Cactus Salsa
Main Ingredients: Cactus, Avocado, Tomatoes, Chopped Onion, Chopped
Switch up your salsa game with this delicious and unique recipe. The cactus paddles are combined with fresh tomatoes, spicy jalapeños, and tangy lime juice for a flavorful and refreshing dip. Serve with chips or use as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.
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Tuna Jalapeño Peppers Appetizers for Holy Week Menu
Main Ingredients: Jalapenos, Tuna In Olive Oil, Fresh Arugula, Olive Oil
Impress your guests with these delicious and unique appetizers. The cactus paddles are stuffed with a spicy tuna mixture and topped with crumbled queso fresco. Perfect for a Holy Week or Easter gathering.
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Cinco de Mayo Piñata Cupcakes (Lime Cupcake)
Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Salt, Baking Soda, Butter
These adorable and festive cupcakes are perfect for any Cinco de Mayo celebration. The lime flavored cupcakes are filled with cactus jelly and topped with a fluffy green frosting. A fun and creative dessert that will surely be a hit at any party.
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Steak Picado! One Skillet Beef Tacos!
Main Ingredients: Chuck Eye Steak, Steak Seasoning, Chili Powder, Cracked
Elevate your taco night with this flavorful and easy recipe. Tender strips of beef are cooked in a spicy tomato sauce and then topped with cactus paddles, crumbled queso fresco, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
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Make These Egg And Cactus-Paddle Tacos
Main Ingredients: Cactus Paddles, Red Bell Pepper, Onion, Garlic
Start your day off right with these delicious and filling breakfast tacos. The cactus paddles are cooked until tender and then combined with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and spicy salsa. A perfect combination of flavors to kickstart your morning.
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Nopales con Huevo (Cactus with Eggs)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Cactus Pads, Onion, Jalapeno, Eggs, Salt
This simple and traditional Mexican breakfast is a staple in many households. The cactus paddles are cooked until tender and then combined with scrambled eggs, sweet tomatoes, and spicy jalapeños. Serve with warm tortillas for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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Northern Mexico Chimichangas
Main Ingredients: Corn Oil, Cactus Paddle, Salt, Seitan, Adobo Sauce
Take your taste buds on a trip to Northern Mexico with these crispy and delicious chimichangas. The cactus paddles are combined with shredded chicken, spicy green chiles, and creamy refried beans. Fried to perfection and topped with guacamole and sour cream.
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Vegan Nopales Tacos With Charred Corn And Black Bean...
Main Ingredients: Cactus Leaves, Red Onion, Jalapeno, Olive Oil, Garlic
These vegan tacos are packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. The cactus paddles are combined with charred corn, black beans, and spicy chipotle peppers. A delicious and plant-based meal that everyone will enjoy.
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Nopales en Salsa Verde #AtoZrecipechallenge
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Onion, Banana Peppers, Cactus Paddles
Put a spin on your usual salsa with this unique and delicious recipe. The cactus paddles are cooked in a savory green salsa until tender and then topped with crumbled queso fresco. Perfect as a dip or used as a topping for tacos or enchiladas.
What You'll Need
To make this Mexican pickled cactus recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of cactus paddles
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 1 tablespoon of coriander
- 1 tablespoon of oregano
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
The Pickling Process
To start, rinse the cactus paddles under cold water and remove any spines with a sharp knife. Then, cut the paddles into bite-sized pieces and set aside. In a large pot, combine the white vinegar, water, minced garlic, and sliced jalapeno pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
In a separate pan, sauté the sliced red onion until it becomes translucent. Add the cactus pieces to the pan and stir in the cumin, coriander, oregano, salt, and sugar. Cook for a few minutes until the cactus starts to soften. Then, transfer the cactus and onion mixture to the pot with the vinegar and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Once the pickling liquid has cooled, transfer everything to a glass jar and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 24 hours before serving. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop and the better it will taste.
Health Benefits
Not only is this Mexican pickled cactus recipe full of flavor, but it also has numerous health benefits. Cactus paddles are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to any diet. They also contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals such as vitamin A, C, and K, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. So not only will you be enjoying a tasty snack, but you'll also be nourishing your body with essential nutrients.
In conclusion, this Mexican pickled cactus recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little Mexican flair to their meals. It's easy to make, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Serve it as a side dish, add it to your tacos or burritos, or simply enjoy it as a snack. The possibilities are endless with this delicious pickled cactus.
