CACTUS FRIES (NOPALITOS FRITOS)

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Cactus Fries (Nopalitos Fritos) image

A zesty taste sensation from Jay's Mestena Cafe in San Antonio, Texas as published in Texas Highways Magazine.

Provided by Molly53

Categories     Vegetable

Time 20m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 lbs fresh cactus pieces, paddles (nopalitos)
3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons achiote paste (look for it in the Mexican specialty-foods section or Achiote Paste)
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 egg white
3/4 cup ice water (approximately)
peanut oil (for frying)

Steps:

  • Remove thorns and "eyes" from cactus, and trim off the edges of pads.
  • Blanch cactus for 2 minutes in a covered pan with enough boiling salted water to cover; drain.
  • Cut cactus in 3- to 4-inch strips similar to French fries; set aside.
  • Combine cornstarch and achiote paste in a blender or food processor, and pulse until smooth.
  • In a medium-size bowl, combine flour and baking powder, add cornstarch mixture, and blend well.
  • In another bowl, beat egg white to stiff meringue.
  • Fold into the flour mixture, alternating with enough ice water to make batter the consistency of unbeaten egg white; chill.
  • Dredge cactus strips in batter, and fry in deep hot oil (375° on the thermometer) until crisp and golden, approximately 3 minutes.
  • Drain well and serve.

Ife Clarke
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These cactus fries were a fun and easy appetizer. I served them with guacamole and sour cream and they were a hit!


ZAYAAN vlogs
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I love the unique flavor of cactus fries. They're a great way to switch up your usual side dish routine.


William Heritage
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These cactus fries were a bit too oily for my taste. I think I'll try baking them next time instead of frying them.


Siam Islam
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I'm always looking for new and interesting recipes, and these cactus fries definitely fit the bill. They were easy to make and they tasted great. I'll definitely be making them again.


hammad ullah
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These cactus fries are a great way to add some variety to your side dish repertoire. They're also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.


Hafashimana Emmanuel
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I wasn't sure what to expect with these cactus fries, but I was pleasantly surprised. They were crispy and flavorful, and the dipping sauce was perfect.


Ty Claridge
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These cactus fries were a bit too spicy for my taste, but I still enjoyed them. I'll try making them again with less chili powder next time.


Kiran Pariyar
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I love cactus fries! They're a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional fries.


Ammanu Godwish
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These cactus fries were a great way to use up some leftover nopales. They were crispy and flavorful.


Bella Sheppard
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I was a bit skeptical about trying cactus fries, but I'm so glad I did! They were delicious and I'll definitely be making them again.


manuel garduno
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These were so easy to make and they turned out great! I'll definitely be making them again.


AwadShah Official
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I made these cactus fries for my family and they loved them! Even my kids, who are picky eaters, asked for seconds.


Khann Marwat
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These cactus fries were a hit at my party! They were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. I loved the slightly tangy flavor.