Nopal Soup (Nopales Navegantes) Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Start by cleaning the nopales, removing the thorns and tough outer skin. Rinse them well and chop into small pieces.
• STEP 2.In a large pot, heat some oil and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the chopped nopales and cook for a few minutes.
• STEP 3.Next, add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices like cumin, paprika, and oregano. Bring the soup to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer for about 20 minutes.
• STEP 4.Once the nopales are tender, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
• STEP 5.For a heartier version, you can add cooked beans or shredded chicken to the soup. Enjoy this nourishing and flavorful Nopal Soup!

Cooking Tips

• When cleaning the nopales, use a sharp knife to remove the thorns and a vegetable peeler to remove the tough outer skin.
• To reduce the sliminess of the nopales, you can blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before adding them to the soup.
• If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add chopped jalapenos or serrano peppers along with the onions and garlic.

Storage and Serving

• Leftover Nopal Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency.
• Serve the Nopal Soup with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal.