Cactus Fruit        

Introduction:

The cactus fruits are very colorful and various shaped, bringing with new flavors and innovative ideas. Consider the yellow or pink-colored cactus fruits, the prickly pears that are characterized by vibrant colors which are very healthy for everyone. Although most of the cactus plants are found in deserts, they are widely preferred to available in other seasons due to their tasteful and nutritional value.

This article looks at the definition of cactus fruits, their varieties, health effects, innovative ways of eating and simple-to-cook recipes. When you have plan to control your diet or simply enjoy trying new foods, you should not be afraid to at least consider that you will eat the cactus fruit.

What is Cactus Fruit?

The prickly pear Cactus fruit or prickly pear is the edible fruit of the prickly pear cactus. Prickly pear cactus is a member of Opuntia family, the family also has other types of cacti that grow fruit. The prickly pear cactus fruit is unique due to the thick skin covered with spines, sweet, juicy and tangy meat.

Cactus fruit is a great but it is also very versatile. It can be used in a number of forms such as raw, juiced, added to jams or jellies or even other foods. The fruit of the cactus has edible seeds which are crunchy and they are typically consumed along with the fruit. The fruit is also very hydrating due to high water content.

What is Dragon Fruit Cactus?

The dragon fruit or pitaya is produced by the Hylocereus cactus’s “dragon fruit cactus” name. This kind of cactus has gained popularity because of the dragon fruit it bears. The outer skin of dragon fruit is pink or yellow which looks spiky which adds into its appearance. When sliced open, the flesh is either white or red containing black seeds.

Dragon fruits are mildly sweet and tangy. Its “fleshy” texture is similar to that of a kiwi which has soft pulp and crunchy seeds. In terms of nutrition, it has vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants which makes dragon fruit healthy to consume. While many consume dragon fruit abecause it is popular in cultures for making smoothies, salads, desserts and even savory dishes.

Different Kinds of Fruits from Cactus:

Let’s take a look at some popular varieties of cactus fruit. Prickly pear is the most well known cactus fruit, growing on the pads of the prickly pear cactus with red, yellow, or green coloring. Most people describe the taste as sweet and tangy at the same time. It has a high water content so it is super refreshing to eat. Most people consume prickly pear cactus fruit raw, or juiced, but it can also be made into jellies& syrups. It can also be used to make alcoholic drinks like margaritas and much more.

Dragon Fruit Cactus (Pitaya):

Dragon fruit is a fruit of the Hylocereus cactus also known as pitaya. The outer skin of the fruit is pinkish and the inner pulp can either be red or white containing tiny black seeds all over. The taste of dragon fruit is subtle and sweet in nature. It is consumed as fresh, blended into smoothies, or used for fruit bowls. Dragon fruit is prized for its color which makes it popular in food presentations and dragon fruit lemonade is also used as a colorful refresher.

Cactus Pear (Prickly Pear):

Another variety of prickly pear is Cactus Pear. It comes in red, purple and yellow colors. Cactus pear tastes differently depending on its color and the reds are sweetest. The cactus pears are widely used in juices, jams, syrups, fresh salads and salsas. The prickly pear has soft and juicy flesh with a little crunchy seeds, or it can be squashy and simple to remove.

Health Perks of Cactus Fruit:

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Whether it’s prickly pear or cactus fruit, they both are a good source of health benefits. Let’s see the top reasons you wish to start eating cactus fruit.

Antioxidant Rich:

Cactus fruit like peroxide is rich in antioxidants, betalains, flavonoids, and vitamin c. Antioxidants are also essential to counter free radicals within the body which may result in oxidative stress which results in chronic diseases. Eating cactus fruit will help to neutralize cell damage and control the aging process.

Strengthens Immune System:

Cactus fruit such as prickly pear, contains high levels of vitamin C. Pell C is known for easy immune support. However, the hydration that comes with cacti aids in its defensive formation by keeping cells hydrated. Regular consumption helps in defense from cold and other infections as well.

Improves Digestion:

Cactus fruit is rich in dietary fibers, which is very helpful in managing digestive problems. Fiber aids in the management of bowel movement, prevents constipation, and health of the gut. It can be improved in digestion and bloating can be reduced by adding cactus fruit in meals.

Good For The Heart:

Studies explian that cactus fruit has the ability to lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL levels of cholesterol. This may help to guard against heart disease and stroke, resulting in enhanced cardiovascular systems. Furthermore, the fiber contents of the cactus fruit also promote good blood sugar levels, another very crucial aspect that may influence heart diseases.

Hydration Benefits:

Cactus fruit’s has high water concentration, it serves as a great way to stay hydrated. Proper hydration aids in preserving energy, regulating temperature of the body, and its functioning optimally. The prickly pear cactus or dragon fruit will keep you refreshed and hydrated.

• How Do You Eat Cactus Fruit?

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Eating cactus fruit is a simple process, but it does need some work to do first. Below are steps to enjoy prickly pear as well as dragon fruit:

Prickly Pear Cactus Fruit:

• Firstly, the prickly pear should be sliced off at both ends.
• Use a sharp knife and cut open a slit on the side of the fruit.
• Then remove the skin very carefully without touching the thorns that can still be resting in the fruit.
• The fruit may be eaten raw, blended into smoothies, or juices after the skin has been removed and may be cut into small pieces.

Pitaya/Dragon Fruit Cactus:

Dragon Fruit Cactus (Pitaya):

• Cut the dragon fruit into half pieces along the length.
• Pick out the meat with a spoon or chop up into cubes.
• Do not forget to avoid eating the skin which is non-edible.

The dragon fruit is an excellent fruit in fruit salads, smoothies, or even it may be served as a snack on its own.

• Prickly Pear Cactus Fruit recipes.

Prickly pear cactus fruit can be included in the recipes in a wide variety of ways. The following are some recipes to use.

Smoothie recipe prickly pear:

• 2 peeled prickly pears that are ripe
• 1 banana
• 1/2 cup of mango or pineapple pieces
• 1 cup coconut water, or orange juice
• Whisk all the ingredients in a smooth mixture. Drink refreshing and healthy smoothie.

Recipe prickly pear jam:

• 4 ripe peeled and cut prickly pears
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Mix prickly pears, sugar, and lemon juice and simmer on medium heat with constant stirring until it thickens. Fill the mixture in sterilized jars that are ready and almost to the top and cool it before sealing it. The jam can be used to spread on toast or even to pour it over desserts.

Prickly pear margarita recipe:

• 1/2 cup prickly pear juice
• 1 oz tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz triple sec

Put all the ingredients into a shaker full of ice and shake, pour in a glass whose rim is salted. Serve immediately to form a lively cactus inspired drink.

• Cast of fruit:

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Cactus fruit is available in special grocery stores and health food stores especially in regions where cacti grow wildly. Farmers’ markets are also great for prickly and dragon fruit. Many grocery stores have frozen cactus fruits which can be used in smoothies and other recipes.

While buying prickly pear cactus fruit, always check for cactus fruits that have smooth and firm skin with no noticeable bruises. In the case of dragon fruit, check that the skin is not very soft and is a bright color. Fresh cactus fruits may become available in local supermarkets.

Conclusion:

Dragon fruit cactus plant has sweet hydration is also looking beautiful. They are not only tasty but also contain a lot of antioxidant, vitamins and fiber which makes them a great addition to your diet. Cactus fruit is wonderful all together, and it can be tried in a variety of ways. You can put cactus fruits in smoothies, jams, salsas or even in margaritas.