A hearty and nutritious cactus soup: all the flavour, none of the prickles!
When it comes to cooking, the possibilities are truly endless. Whether you have a craving for something comforting like a soup, or something creative and adventurous, there is always something that fits the bill.
That’s why today I am featuring something a little bit different – cactus soup! This dish packs in lots of nutrients and flavour, and is a great way to explore new flavours and ingredients.
Cactus soup is a hearty and flavourful soup that is sure to satisfy both health- and taste-buds. It has its roots in the Mexican cuisine and is traditionally made with the prickly pear paddles of the cactus. A great source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre, cactus soup has become a popular comfort food, as it is both cleansing and nutritious.
Ingredients:
• 2 large cactus paddles, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup corn
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Method:
1. Heat a large non-stick pot over medium-high heat. Add the cactus paddles and onion and cook until softened, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, oregano and vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until cactus is tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the beans, corn, cilantro, salt and pepper and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes more.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This cactus soup can be served hot or cold. It pairs nicely with crusty bread or a plate of nachos. And for a Mexican-inspired twist, top with a dollop of sour cream and a couple of slices of jalapenos.
Cactus soup is an interesting and nutritious dish to explore. Its Mexican roots are evident in its flavours – sweet, tangy and down-right delicious. It has plenty of textures and colours, making it both exciting and satisfying. So why not give this dish a try and explore a new culinary tradition? Enjoy!
