Cactus Paddle and Black Bean Tacos

History & Origin

Cactus paddles (nopales) are one of the cornerstones of Mexican gastronomy, a food that has nourished the Mexican people since pre-Hispanic times. The nopal cactus is so fundamental to Aztec culture that the image of an eagle perched on a nopal became the emblem on Mexico's national coat of arms. Black beans are another ancient ingredient that has been part of the Mesoamerican diet for over 7,000 years. Together with maize and chilli, they form the sacred trio of traditional Mexican nutrition. Smashed black beans are versatile, protein-rich and deeply satisfying. The combination of griddled cactus with black beans is pure grandmother's cooking: economical, nourishing and delicious. The griddle toasts the cactus to perfection, eliminating much of its natural gel whilst developing a lightly smoky, caramelised flavour. Quick-pickled red onion adds freshness and acidity that perfectly balances the richness of the beans. This taco is 100% vegan without any substitutes — nature designed it that way. It proves that Mexican cuisine has always been, in large part, a cuisine of plants.