Phadya Nivadung / फड्या निवडुंग / Prickly Pear / Opuntia elatior

Other Names

Status & Habitat

Habitat: Succulent plant
Occurrence: Arid and semi-arid regions, often found in scrublands and rocky areas
Season of Availability: Throughout the year, but the fruiting season is typically during the warmer months
Geography: Native to the Americas, but now found in many parts of India and other tropical and subtropical regions
Method of Propagation: Seeds or stem cuttings
Part used for Propagation: Seeds or segments of the stem (pads)

Raw: The fruit can be eaten raw after peeling off the outer skin with spines.
Ripe: The fruit is usually consumed when fully ripe.
Both Raw & Ripe: The young pads (nopales) can be eaten raw or cooked, typically after removing the spines.
Dangerous Form to Consume: Care should be taken to remove all spines before consumption.
As Food: Care should be taken to remove all spines before consumption.
As Medicine: Traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-lowering properties.
Cooking Method: The pads can be grilled, boiled, or sautéed, while the fruit is usually consumed raw or made into jams and jellies.
Preservation / Curing Technique: The fruit can be dried or made into preserves, while the pads can be pickled.
Does Require Another Plants to be cooked together: No, but it can be combined with other vegetables in dishes.
Souring Agents Required: Not required, but lime or lemon juice can enhance the flavor of the pads.

Nutritional Benefit: Rich in vitamins C and A, magnesium, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Medicinal Benefit: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to help in regulating blood sugar levels.

Tribal Wisdom: Used by indigenous communities to treat wounds, burns, and as a food source in arid regions.

Tribal Recipe / Usage: The fruit is consumed directly as a sweet treat, while the pads can be used in traditional salads or as a side dish after grilling or boiling.