How to Cut and Enjoy a Cactus Pear

by Jesus Galvan, of Morelia's Mexican Restaurant

While shopping at Publix, we were surprised to find a cactus pear, the fruit of the opuntia cactus (also known as the paddle cactus.) It is a common fruit in Mexico, where we call it tuna. Several of our friends did not know how to eat it or that the little black seeds are edible.

Here's a video demonstration of how to cut and enjoy a delicious cactus pear.

Long considered sacred by Native Americans, the Cactus Pear, or Indian Fig, grows wild throughout the American and Latin Southwest atop the leaves of cactus plants. Also called a Prickly Pear because of its spiny hairs, the juicy pulp varies in color from green, orange-yellow or dark red with a multitude of small, crunchy edible seeds. This beautiful fruit is wonderful eaten right out of its shell. Use its vibrant sweet flavor in sorbets, yogurts and fruit salads. Its flaming fuchsia color adds a dramatic touch to green salads and can be pureed or made into jam or juice. Use gloves to protect your hands, and make sure to strain the pulp to remove the seeds, if cooking.

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