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The Cactus Leaves used for cooking are the leaves of the Prickly Pear Cactus, the same one that produces the Prickly Pear fruit. Some other species of cactus are poisonous, so don't decide to start munching on just any old dusty cactus in your windowsill. The Mexicans call this cactus the "nopal".
The leaves are thick, and range in colour from pale to a dark green. They taste a bit like green bell pepper, asparagus and runner beans or green beans, with a bit of tartness to the taste.
When cooked, they are still a bit crunchy, and are a bit viscous or slippery like Okra. Younger leaves are less viscous.
When buying fresh Cactus Leaves, choose ones that are crisp, and small to medium-sized. Avoid those that are limp, dry or soggy, and those with soft spots, cracks, bruises or wrinkles. The colouring should be even. They are usually sold with the thorns removed.
You can also buy them canned (they will be in water or pickled).
The leaves are also referred to as pads or paddles.
Nopalitos
Cactus Leaves that have been cut up
Acitrón
Acitrón is candied pieces of Cactus Leaves, sold in cans and jars in a syrup. The Cactus Leaves used will come from either the Prickly Pear Cactus, or from the Biznaga Cactus. The plural of Acitrón is "Acitrónes".
Cooking Tips
If the thorns haven't been removed at all, then remove them with a sharp knife. If there are any remaining eyes or parts of thorns, you can clean those off with a vegetable peeler. Then, trim the outside edges. Cut up before cooking.
Steam for 3 minutes or microwave.
When using in salads, you still need to steam them first.
Cactus Leaves are usually combined in dishes with other foods, rather than being eaten on their own.
Equivalents
1 pound cactus leaves = 450g = 6 to 10 leaves.
Storage
Store in plastic bag in fridge for up to 1 week.
Also called:  Cactus Pads
Nopales
Prickly Pear Cactus Leaf
Prickly Pear Cactus Pad
Prickly Pear Cactus Paddle Opuntia spp. (Scientific Name) Acitrón, Nopales, Nopalitos (Spanish)
See Also
Prickly Pears
Other entries for Viscous Vegetables
Cactus Leaves, Okra, Viscous Vegetables
Other entries for Vegetables
Agave, Artichokes, Asparagus, Brassica Family, Canned Vegetables, Cardoons, Celery, Corn, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Frozen Vegetables, Garlic, Gourds, Herbed Vinegars, Horseradish Tree, Hoshi Shiitake, Leafy Vegetables, Lotus, Mixed Vegetables, Mushrooms, Pak Wan, Peas, Peppers, Root Vegetables, Sago Palm, Seaweed, Spinach, Sprouts, Squash, Tomatoes
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