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__Handling and Preparing Cactus

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(Nopales)

The whole oval paddles of the prickly pear cactus are called nopales and nopalitos when cut into strips or squares. They are used extensively in many parts of Mexico, especially in the north and central regions. Cactus is often boiled, sautéed, or grilled and used in salads, with eggs, or as a taco filling. Cactus has a mild pleasant flavor and texture somewhat like green beans.

The common cactus sold in outdoor markets has thin paddles with spines or thorns attached. Look for small paddles that are firm and not limp or wrinkled. Wear thick protective gloves when handling fresh cactus, even with the species cultivated to have fewer spines, for there will still be some almost hair-like spines to scrape off.

Before cooking, put on gloves, then cut off the blunt end and trim about one-quarter inch off the outside edge of the paddle. Shave off the thorns with a vegetable peeler, or thin sharp knife. The paddles will keep fresh in the refrigerator, sealed in a plastic bag up to 3 days, or cut into squares or strips and use as needed.




From "1,000 Mexican Recipes." Copyright 2001 by Marge Poore. Used with permission of the publisher, Wiley Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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__Yucatán Seasoning Pastes
04- Techniques
02- Ingredients for the Mexican Pantry
01- Introduction
03- Kitchen Equipment
05- Menus
06- Mexican Cooking Glossary
07- Mail-Order Sources for Ingredients
08- About Author
__Roasting, Peeling and Seeding Fresh Chiles
__Roasting Tomatoes
__Toasting Dried Chiles
__Toasting Dried Herbs and Spices
__Toasting Nuts and Seeds
__Grinding, Blending, and Frying
__Using Banana Leaves
__Using Fresh Cactus Paddles
__Pressing Tortillas
__Hot Tamales For Every Taste
__Handling and Preparing Cactus
__Chicharrón, a National Snack
__Fried Corn Tortilla Chips and Strips
__Moles with Poultry
__Making Beans Easier to Digest
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