Cactus paddles topped with beans, cheese, and salsa.
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Nutrition per Serving
Ingredients
Estimated total cost: €12.35 · €2.06/serving
- 8 medium prickly pear cactus paddles, cleaned and spines removed (wear gloves when handling)Est. price €4.80–€7.20
- 1 tbsp premium extra virgin coconut oil (use a non-stick skillet for even distribution)Est. price €0.25–€0.45
- 4 cups (1 L) cooked Black Velvet Beans (rinse well before using to remove excess starch)Est. price €3.20–€5.60
- 4 cups (1 L) Red Cabbage Slaw or shredded lettuce (pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture)Est. price €2.00–€3.60
- 6 oz (175 g) crumbled queso fresco (let sit at room temperature for easier crumbling)Est. price €2.10–€3.90
Steps
- 1Begin by boiling a large pot of water over high heat and adding the nopales. Allow them to cook for approximately 5 minutes before removing them and rinsing under cold water. After patting them dry, make shallow cuts on each side of the nopales and coat with coconut oil. Next, heat a dry griddle over high heat and cook the nopales in batches to avoid overcrowding. Grill each side for around 3-5 minutes or until they develop slight blistering. Once done, set the cooked nopales aside for later use.
- 2Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add the beans and mash them as they cook until they reach a loose paste consistency, which should take around 5 minutes.
Cultural note
Cactus paddles are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their unique flavor and texture. Tostadas are a traditional Mexican dish that consists of a crispy tortilla topped with various ingredients, reflecting the vibrant culinary heritage of Mexico.
Seasonal note
Cactus paddles are typically in season during the spring and summer months, making this dish ideal for those seasons. Red cabbage is also a seasonal vegetable that pairs well with the cactus paddles in this recipe.
Health note
This dish is a good source of plant-based protein from the black velvet beans and queso fresco. It is high in fiber which aids in digestion and helps with satiety. The cactus paddles provide vitamins A and C, while the coconut oil adds healthy fats.
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