Cactuses aren’t just part of the scenery in South Texas. For centuries, the fruit and paddles from the prickly pear cactus have fueled the people who live here, and they’re still easy to find on the ...

While many see versatile maiz as the foremost plant in Mexican cookery, cactus occupies a more symbolic role for many Mexicans. You can literally see this by examining the Mexican flag, which depicts ...

Eat cactus? For people living in Mexico and the Southwest, the answer is a resounding yes. Nopal, also known as the prickly pear cactus, grows plentifully there and its health benefits and versatility ...

This week we cook up four nopal (cactus) recipes that go beyond the traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes we love in South Texas. Paul Stephen is a food writer for the Express-News. He can be reached ...

Amelia Saltsman spends a lot more time at farmers markets than you do. Unless you’re a farmer, at any rate, in which case you probably know Saltsman and have maybe talked to her for her first book, ...

A staple vegetable throughout Mexico, these spiky pads have a unique texture and flavor—and limitless culinary possibilities. Nopales, also known as prickly pear cactus pads, are vastly versatile, ...

Prickly desert cactus sounds like the last thing you’d want to eat. But -- surprise! -- once the spines are off, cactus is juicy and tender, great in anything from salads and soups to main courses and ...

Instructions: Trim the prickly part of the cactus by scraping them off with a knife. Cut the paddles into 2-inch cubes and place in a large saucepan. Add the turmeric, 1 teaspoon of salt and roughly 4 ...

What are the must-have fillings for a taco? For many it will be carnitas or el pastor-style pork, frijoles (beans) or even ...

Cactus fruit is rich in betanin, polyphenols and other potent antioxidants that support liver health, protect against heart disease and reduce inflammation.