How to Harvest Nopales

The Nopales (or Prickly Pear Cactus) is native to Mexico and hides something scrumptious underneath all those thorns. Both the cactus pads and pears are edible and used in a variety of dishes. The fruit of the Nopales is sweet and the pads are savory. The Nopales is also said to have some medicinal properties as it decreases plasma LDL levels. Harvesting the Nopales is a prickly job, but someone has to do it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Harvest the Nopales pads between spring and the end of summer, when the pads are thin and no longer than 8 inches.

2. Wear thick gloves that prevents the Prickly Pear spines from poking the hands. Snap the pad off with your hand or use a knife to cut it.

3. Use a small paring knife or vegetable peeler to remove the thorns and "eyes". Wash the pads with cool water and remove any discolored portions.

4. Slice the pad to serve in a variety of dishes, but be sure not to overcook them as they turn slimy. You can also grill the pads whole.

5. Pick the prickly pears when they have ripened to the appropriate color of yellow, white or purple. Use gloves and cut of spines in the same manner as harvested pads.

6. Cut of the skin of the prickly pear and slice to serve. Prickly pears are also used in the making of jams, jellies, candies and desserts.