Discover a vibrant and flavorful Mexican breakfast – or any meal, really – with this recipe for Nopales with Eggs in a zesty Tatemada sauce. Nopales, or prickly pear pads, offer a unique, slightly tangy taste and satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the richness of eggs. This simple yet sophisticated dish is a testament to the beauty of fresh ingredients and traditional Mexican cooking. The slight char from the Tatemada sauce adds a smoky depth that elevates this breakfast staple beyond the ordinary.
Beyond their deliciousness, nopales are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This recipe is a delightful way to incorporate this healthy cactus into your diet. Ready to experience the magic of this unique dish? Let's dive into the easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Colander
- Griddle
- Blender
Ingredients
- Nopales (cactus pads): 5
- Eggs: 8
- Cilantro: 2 sprigs + more for garnish
- Ripe Tomatoes: 6
- Guajillo Chili: 1
- Serrano Chilies: 3
- Garlic: 1 1/2 cloves
- Onion: 1 small + 1/4
- Salt
- Beans (from the pot)
- Avocado
- Fresh Cheese
- Oil
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Nopales and Tatemada Sauce
- Boil nopales with 2 sprigs of cilantro, 3 tomato peels, and 1/4 onion. Add a little less than a teaspoon of salt.
- Cook nopales until tender.
- Let nopales cool, then pass through a colander to remove tomato peels, onion, and cilantro.
- Roast tomatoes and serrano peppers on a griddle. Be careful not to burn the guajillo chili.




- Blend roasted tomatoes, guajillo chili, serrano chilies, garlic, and salt to make the sauce.
- Chop onion and cilantro.


Step 2. Sauté Nopales and Onions
- Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped onion and sauté until transparent.
- Add cooked nopales and sauté for 7 minutes. Stir in chopped cilantro.


Step 3. Cook the Eggs with Nopales
- Add eggs and stir to combine with the nopales.

Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add the sauce and a little water or broth. Season with salt.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then turn off the heat and serve.


Read more: Crispy Fish Tacos Recipe: Easy Fried Tilapia Tacos
Tips
- The tomato peels help to cut the slime from the nopales.
- Adjust the amount of cilantro to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Where can I find nopales?
Nopales, or prickly pear pads, are available at many Latin American grocery stores, some farmers' markets, and increasingly, in larger supermarkets. Look for pads that are firm and bright green.
2. Can I substitute the Tatemada sauce?
While Tatemada sauce provides a unique smoky flavor, you can substitute it with a chipotle sauce, a mild salsa, or even just a little lime juice and chili powder for a simpler version. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
This Nopales with Eggs in Tatemada sauce recipe is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a unique and flavorful meal. The combination of textures and tastes is sure to become a new favorite, offering a vibrant twist on traditional breakfast fare. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with different spices and additions to make it your own!