Nopales? No Problem!

Nopales? No Problem!

1 large cactus leaf
3 eggs
1/2 cup milk
A dash of baking soda
Salt and pepper

The nopal cactus leaf, also known as Indian Fig Opuntia and prickly pear, is cultivated and eaten in many parts of the world, and is making its debut in the Three Minute Kitchen. Fresh cactus leaf will probably still have some spines on it, and these can be easily removed by scrubbing the surface of the leaf with a standard kitchen scrubbing pad. Once you are convinced that there are no more hazardous spines to lacerate the tender flesh of your mouth, slice the cactus into french-fry-like pieces. Toss these into a pot and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for 10 or so minutes. Add a dash of baking soda towards the end of the simmering interval to help extract the unpleasant slime from inside the cactus. Use a colander to drain. Meanwhile, crack three eggs into a bowl and mix thoroughly with milk. Butter a frying pan and pour both the egg/milk mixture and the cactus into the pan. Stir regularly, scrambling the eggs with the cactus pieces. Salt and pepper to taste. A hearty breakfast for those who enjoy flavorless mouthfuls of slime.