Sautéed Cactus Tacos with Monterey Jack
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexico with these Sautéed Cactus Tacos featuring fresh ingredients and just the right amount of spice. This dish highlights the unique texture of cactus, known as nopales, and combines it with the freshness of tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro. Topped with creamy Monterey Jack cheese, these tacos are perfect for sharing with family and friends, making them a delightful addition to any meal or a fantastic centerpiece for a brunch. Packed with nutrients, this recipe is a delicious way to explore traditional Mexican cuisine.
4
Servings
100
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
cactus pieces
1 lb (fresh, steamed until tender)
tomatoes
1 small (diced)
white onion
1/4 small (finely chopped)
jalapeno pepper
1 (finely chopped)
cilantro
1/4 bunch (chopped)
Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup (shredded)
salt
1 teaspoon (optional) (to taste)
corn oil
4 tablespoons (for frying)
Instructions
1
Begin by steaming the cactus pieces in a pot with a little water for about 10–15 minutes, or until they are soft and tender. Make sure to drain any excess water thoroughly.
2
In a medium skillet, heat the corn oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped white onion and jalapeño pepper to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3
Next, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
4
Introduce the steamed cactus into the skillet, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt to taste, if desired.
5
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor melding.
6
Once the cactus mixture is ready, remove it from heat and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top. Cover the skillet for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.
7
Serve the sautéed cactus mixture in warm tortillas and garnish with chopped cilantro for an authentic Mexican experience.
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
8.5g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sautéed Cactus Tacos?
Sautéed Cactus Tacos, or Tacos de Nopales, are a traditional Mexican dish featuring tender cactus pieces sautéed with aromatic vegetables and topped with melted cheese.
What is the common Mexican name for cactus used in this recipe?
The cactus used in this recipe is commonly known as nopales in Mexican cuisine.
Is this cactus taco recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses cactus, vegetables, and cheese without any meat products.
How many calories are in one serving of these cactus tacos?
Each serving of these Sautéed Cactus Tacos contains approximately 100 calories.
What kind of cheese is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a creamy and mild finish.
How do I prepare the cactus before sautéing it?
You should steam the cactus pieces in a pot with a little water for 10 to 15 minutes until they are soft and tender, then drain thoroughly.
What type of oil is used for frying the vegetables?
The recipe specifies using 4 tablespoons of corn oil for sautéing the ingredients.
Are these tacos spicy?
These tacos have a moderate kick as they include one finely chopped jalapeño pepper.
What vegetables are included in the cactus mixture?
The mixture includes cactus pieces, diced tomatoes, white onion, and jalapeño pepper.
How long should the cactus mixture simmer?
The mixture should simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What kind of onion should I use for the best flavor?
A white onion is used in this recipe, finely chopped for a traditional Mexican taste profile.
How is the tomato prepared for the taco filling?
The tomato should be diced before being added to the skillet.
Is salt required for this recipe?
One teaspoon of salt is suggested, but it is optional and can be adjusted to your personal taste.
What is the best way to serve these tacos?
Serve the sautéed cactus mixture in warm tortillas and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 5 grams of fat.
How many grams of carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 8.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving in this dish.
How much protein is provided per serving?
This recipe provides 3 grams of protein per serving.
How much cilantro is needed for garnishing?
You will need about 1/4 bunch of chopped cilantro to garnish the tacos.
How long does the initial steaming of the cactus take?
Steaming the cactus takes between 10 and 15 minutes.
Should I keep the water used for steaming the cactus?
No, you should drain any excess water thoroughly after the cactus has finished steaming.
What are the first ingredients to go into the skillet?
After heating the oil, the first ingredients to be sautéed are the finely chopped white onion and jalapeño pepper.
How long do I sauté the onion and jalapeño?
Sauté them for approximately 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
When should the cheese be added to the dish?
The cheese should be sprinkled on top once the skillet is removed from the heat, then covered for a few minutes to melt.
What type of cuisine does this recipe represent?
This recipe is an example of traditional Mexican cuisine.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a healthy option that is packed with nutrients.
Is this recipe suitable for a brunch menu?
Yes, these tacos make a fantastic centerpiece for a brunch or any family meal.
How much Monterey Jack cheese do I need?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
What is the texture of the cactus once cooked?
Once steamed and sautéed, the cactus should be soft and tender with a unique texture.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are a total of 8 ingredients required for this recipe, excluding the tortillas.