Nopalitos Con Huevo

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked nopalitos (read notes)

6 medium eggs

1 small onion (chopped)

2 medium tomatoes (diced)

2 jalapeño pepper or serrano pepper

1 garlic clove (minced)

3 Tbsp olive oil

salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

Crack eggs in a bowl and seasong with salt and pepper. Whisk until combined.

Heat the olive oil in a large pan or cast-iron skillet.

Add onion and sauté until slightly translucent.

Stir in chilies and garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add tomatoes and nopales, season with salt and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tomatoes soften.

Pour in the eggs and cook everything for 2-3 minutes or until eggs are set to your desired consistency.

Adjust seasonings to taste and serve immediately.

Notes:

If you want to use fresh nopales pads to make this recipe, make sure to buy them cleaned, then cook them in water with salt until tender. Drain and use in the recipe.

You can store nopales con huevo leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container or freeze them for up to 3 months.

If you want super moist and custardy eggs, cook them for up to 1 minute only.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are nopalitos, and where can I find them?

Nopalitos are tender young pads of the prickly pear cactus.

They are often available in the produce section of grocery stores, especially in areas with a significant Hispanic population.

You can also find them canned or jarred in many stores.

Can I use canned nopalitos instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use canned nopalitos as a convenient alternative to fresh ones.

Just be sure to drain and rinse them before using to remove any excess liquid and reduce their slightly slimy texture.

How do I know when the eggs are cooked to my desired consistency?

The cooking time for the eggs can vary depending on your preference.

If you prefer softer, custardy eggs, cook them for about 1 minute after adding them to the pan.

For firmer eggs, cook them for 2-3 minutes or until they are fully set.

Can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?

Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of jalapeño or serrano peppers you use.

For a milder dish, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before chopping them.

Conversely, if you prefer a spicier dish, leave the seeds and membranes intact or add extra peppers.

How should I store leftovers of Nopalitos Con Huevo?

You can store leftovers of Nopalitos Con Huevo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply microwave them until warmed through or warm them in a skillet over medium heat.

Alternatively, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months for longer-term storage.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil?

While olive oil adds a distinctive flavor to the dish, you can substitute it with other cooking oils such as vegetable oil or avocado oil if preferred.

Choose an oil with a high smoke point suitable for sautéing.

How do I know when the eggs are cooked to perfection?

The cooking time for the eggs varies depending on your preference.

For soft, custardy eggs, cook them for about 1 minute after adding them to the pan.

For firmer eggs, cook for 2-3 minutes until they are fully set.

Can I make Nopalitos Con Huevo ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time for a quicker cooking process.

However, it’s recommended to cook the eggs just before serving to ensure they’re at their best texture.

What can I serve with Nopalitos Con Huevo?

This dish pairs well with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

You can also serve it with avocado slices, refried beans, or a side of salsa for added flavor.

Are there any alternatives to using tomatoes in this recipe?

If you don’t have tomatoes on hand or prefer to omit them, you can substitute them with roasted bell peppers or canned diced tomatoes.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the vegetables are properly cooked.

Is it necessary to season the eggs before cooking?

Seasoning the eggs with salt and pepper before cooking helps enhance their flavor and ensures even distribution of seasoning throughout the dish.

However, you can adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs in Nopalitos Con Huevo?

Yes, you can substitute whole eggs with egg whites if you prefer a lower-fat option.

Use about 1 1/2 cups of egg whites in place of the 6 medium eggs called for in the recipe.