Prickly Pear
Opuntia ficus-indica
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Description
Fruit of the Nopal cactus. Thick spiny skin (peel carefully!) and sweet, melon-like pulp with many hard seeds.
Benefits
Rich in fiber, antioxidants (betalains), and magnesium. Helps regulate blood sugar and digestion.
History and Origins
Native to Mexico and the Americas. It was a staple of the Aztec diet. In Northeastern Brazil, the cactus (Palma) is widely grown as fodder for cattle during droughts, but the fruit is also eaten.
Fun Facts
The fruit has tiny, invisible spines (glochids) that hurt! Handle with tongs. It is used to make candies, juices, and even cosmetics.
What are the varieties of Prickly Pear?
Varieties: Red (common), Yellow (sweet), and White (mild).
Nutritional Values per 100g of Prickly Pear
| Calories | 44 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 10.24 g |
| Protein | 0.84 g |
| Fat | 0.51 g |
| Fiber | 4.65 g |
| Vitamin C | 14 mg |
Harvest Months
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Available
Unavailable
Harvest months listed here correspond to the Southern Hemisphere.
