2512. PIQUANT CACTUS with BACON and CORNBREAD

yields six servings


4 to 6 large cactus pads (about 8 inches x 4 inches)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 cup water
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
4 bacon strips
2 tablespoons or red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
cornbread, optional

Slice cactus pads into 1/2-in. wide strips; place in a saucepan. Add onion, water and 1/2 teaspoon salt; cover and cook over medium heat until cactus is tender, about 15 minutes. Drain. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet until crisp; drain, reserving 2 tablespoons drippings. To drippings, add vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire sauce and remaining salt; bring to a boil. Add cactus and bacon; toss to coat. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Serve warm with corn bread if desired.


bacon recipe courtesy of: Birds & Blooms Magazine, December/January 1998, page 55 | Taste of Home, RDA Food & Entertaining Affinity, 5400 South 60th Street, Greendale, Wisconsin 53129