Dont judge a fruit by its spiky cover.
It goes by several other names, including eastern prickly pear, Indian fig, and the devils tongue.
Cactus fruits bloom on the edges of the flat pads of a cactus.
Photo:Yulia Reznikov/Getty Images
So, cactus fruit must be peeled or cut before the flesh can be eaten and enjoyed raw.
Cactus fruits are juicy, soft, and refreshing.
Look for cactus fruits that feel heavy for their size.
Fortunately, when shopping at agrocery store, the glochids are likely already removed.
When the glochids are present, you shouldnt handle cactus fruit with your bare hands.
So, its best to peel cactus fruits before enjoying them.
Ways to Serve Cactus Fruit
Cactus fruit is delicious on its own.
you’re free to eat it raw and enjoy it by itself as a snack.
The sweet juice can be used in jam, candy, cocktails,salad dressings, and more.
The juice can also be used in Mexican recipes, like agua fresca.
Though covered in spikes, the pads or paddles of the cactus are edible.
Theyre commonly used in Mexican recipes, like nopales.
The cactus fruit paddles are de-spiked, cleaned, cooked, and used as a meat substitute intacosorsalads.
