Cacti are famous for their tough exterior and sharp thorns. These thorns not only protect the plant from animals but also make people wary of approaching them. Even the most cautious individuals are often pricked by their sharp spikes. However, in Mexico, the cactus is not only revered as the national flower but also a frequent guest at the dinner table.
For people in other countries, eating cactus might sound like a strange idea. But in Mexico, cactus is more than just a cultural symbol — it’s a delicious ingredient. It represents strength, resilience, and the Mexican people’s deep-rooted connection to their land.
The Role of Cactus in Mexican Culture and Cuisine
The relationship between Mexico and the cactus runs deep, and even the Mexican flag reflects this connection. On the Mexican flag, there is an eagle standing on a cactus with a rattlesnake in its claws. This symbolizes the founding of Mexico City, with the cactus being the emblem of the nation’s birth. 
Mexico is one of the countries with the most varieties of cactus in the world. Of the over 1,000 species of cactus globally, more than 500 can be found in Mexico. For Mexicans, the cactus is a crucial natural ingredient, present in many meals. Unlike other nations that avoid cacti, Mexicans expertly prepare this plant for the table.
Grilled Cactus: A Mexican Classic
One of the most popular ways to prepare cactus in Mexico is by grilling it. The process is simple: first, the thorns and tough skin are removed, and then the cactus is cut into smaller pieces. The pieces are grilled over charcoal until tender, and then topped with chili powder, garlic, olive oil, and onions. This grilled cactus is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, filled with rich flavors — a dish Mexicans love to enjoy at family gatherings or parties.
Grilled cactus is commonly found at both street food stalls and high-end restaurants in Mexico. Its unique flavor, combined with its hearty texture, makes it a satisfying dish.
Cactus Salad and Milkshakes: Refreshing and Tasty
In addition to grilling, Mexicans also prepare cactus as a salad, often combining it with other vegetables. This salad is refreshing and light, with the cactus adding a special flavor that complements the other ingredients. During Mexico’s hot summer months, cactus salad is a popular dish.
Cactus is also frequently used to make milkshakes. Especially in the summer, a cool cactus milkshake is a great way to quench thirst and enjoy a unique flavor. Cactus mixed with fruits and milk makes for a delicious, tangy, and refreshing beverage.
Cactus Juice: The Green Refreshment
Cactus isn’t just used in food; it’s also a popular drink in Mexico — the green juice. This juice is made by blending cactus with fresh ingredients like grapefruit, orange, lemon, and mint. The result is a refreshing drink that’s widely available at street stands throughout Mexico.
Green cactus juice is so common in Mexico that it’s as popular as bubble tea in many countries. It’s particularly loved during the hot months and is a favorite for both its cooling properties and nutritional benefits.
Cactus Soup: Healthy and Inviting
Besides grilling and juicing, cactus is also used in soups. When cut into small pieces and simmered with other vegetables, cactus creates a flavorful soup that’s slightly tangy and helps to detoxify the body. Cactus soup is a beloved dish in Mexican households and is especially comforting during the cooler seasons.
Many Mexican restaurants also offer cactus soup, which is known for its refreshing and soothing properties. Its mild acidity pairs well with spicy foods, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Cactus for Kids in Mexico
In Mexico, cactus is a common food for children. To make it more appealing, many Mexican families use molds to shape cactus into fun, cartoon-like forms. For example, “Batman cactus” and “Dinosaur cactus” are popular shapes among kids. This creative approach helps children develop an interest in eating cactus from a young age.
Additionally, many Mexican schools and kindergartens include cactus as part of the daily meals, ensuring that children grow up familiar with and fond of this plant.
The Cactus Festival: A Celebration of Cactus Cuisine
To honor this special ingredient, Mexico also holds a Cactus Festival. In 2010, former Santa Cruz City councilman Tony Madrigal led the planning of the first Cactus Festival. Since then, this event has grown into a significant celebration, with one of its main attractions being a cooking competition featuring cactus-based dishes.
At the festival, chefs and home cooks from all over Mexico showcase their unique cactus recipes. The event is a wonderful way to celebrate not only cactus as an ingredient but also the culinary creativity of Mexicans.
Conclusion: Cactus, Mexico’s Symbol of Resilience
The cactus, a plant that grows in the desert, is not just a symbol of Mexico — it has also become a culinary and environmental treasure. From food to fashion, cactus is woven into the fabric of Mexican life. Mexicans have found ways to make cactus not only edible but also a part of their sustainable future.
Who would have thought that this prickly plant could hold so much flavor and promise? Just like people, things that seem hard to approach at first may surprise us with their hidden beauty and potential.
