Fruit | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Fat

Prickly Pear Cactu

Opuntia ficus-indica Allergen-Free
Prickly Pear Cactu

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Cactaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mexican
  • Seasonality Late Summer - Fall
  • Source Cactus Plant

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

The fruit of the prickly pear cactus, offering a sweet, subtly tart flavor and a juicy, seedy pulp.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Subtly Tart, Fruity
TextureJuicy, Seedy, Fleshy
AromaTropical, Melon-like, Mildly Floral
AcidityLow-Medium

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 100 g
Calories41 kcal
Total Fat0.5 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.7 g
Total Carbohydrate9.6 g
Dietary Fiber3.6 g
Total Sugars6.7 g
Calcium56 mg
Iron0.4 mg
Potassium220 mg

Chef’s Secret

When making juice or purée, pass through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the tiny, hard seeds that can be unpleasant.

Substitutions

Best Match

Dragon Fruit

1:1

Similar texture and mild, sweet flavor for fresh use.

Kiwi

1:1

Offers tartness and seedy texture in jams or desserts.

Strawberries

1:1

For a more common sweet-tart berry substitute in drinks.

Watermelon

1:1

For a juicy, refreshing base in beverages and sorbets.

Buying Guide

Select firm, brightly colored fruits. Use tongs and gloves to handle due to glochids (tiny spines); peel carefully.

Flavor Pairings

Lime Tequila Mint Honey Berries Citrus Yogurt