Description
Mexican Pintos with Cactus is a traditional dish that combines the earthy flavor of pinto beans with the refreshing, slightly tangy taste of cactus, making for a hearty and nutritious side dish or main course.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup fresh or canned cactus pads (nopales), sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Optional: diced tomatoes or green chilies for added flavor
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the cactus pads to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the soaked pinto beans and vegetable broth (or water) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed.
- Once the beans are cooked, stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice, and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve warm as a side dish or main course, optionally garnished with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of cheese.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or grilled meats.
- If fresh cactus is unavailable, you can use canned nopales, which are usually found in Latin markets.
- For a spicier version, add chopped green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Mexican pintos, cactus, nopales, pinto beans, vegetarian, Mexican side dish