Mexican Pintos with Cactus

May 22, 2023May 22, 20230 13

Mexican Pintos with Cactus, a hearty and nutritious meal

by The Chefin Main

Prep

30 min

Cook

1 hour 30 min

Ready In

2 hours

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

257

Sugar

Fat

Mexican Pintos with Cactus is a traditional Mexican dish that is popular in the southwestern United States. The dish is easy to make and it's packed with protein, fiber, and healthy nutrients. The combination of beans and cactus is not only tasty but also makes for a filling and nutritious meal. This dish can be served as a main meal or as a side dish.

Instructions

1.	Add dry pinto beans to a large pot and cover with water.
2.	Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the pot and bring to a boil.
3.	Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
4.	Drain the beans and set aside.
5.	In a separate pan, cook chopped bacon until crispy then remove and drain on paper towels.
6.	Chop cactus leaves into small pieces and add to the pan where the bacon was cooked.
7.	Cook cactus leaves until they are tender then remove from the pan and set aside.
8.	In the same pan, sauté jalapeno pepper and onion until soft.
9.	Add back the bacon, beans, and cactus leaves.
10.	Add 2 tablespoons of salt to the pan and stir gently to combine.
11.	Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
12.	Serve hot with cornbread or tortilla chips.

PROS

Mexican Pintos with Cactus is a hearty and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and packed with healthy nutrients.

The combination of beans and cactus is high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants which makes it superb for digestion and heart health.

This dish is also low in fat and calories.

CONS

This meal contains sodium which can be problematic for people who are trying to reduce their sodium intake.

Cactus is not a common ingredient so it may be difficult to find in grocery stores.

Some people may not like the texture of beans or cactus in their food.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Mexican Pintos with Cactus is a nutritious meal that is rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
The fiber in the beans helps to lower cholesterol levels, regulate digestion, and control blood sugar levels.
Cactus is high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that help to prevent chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.

	2 cups dry pinto beans , rinsed
	3 tablespoons salt , divided
	3 slices bacon , chopped
	2 large flat cactus leaves ( nopales )
	1 jalapeno pepper , seeded and chopped
	2 slices onion