The Desert Recipe

Time50m
Serves4

Harissa roasted cactus, Malaysian curry jam, scallions, cilantro, and onions two ways.

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Ingredients

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Cactus Preparation

Curry Jam

Garnish

Method

Roasting Cactus

1

Prepare the Cactus

Start by cleaning the cactus pads thoroughly. Remove any spines and slice them into strips.

2

Marinate

In a bowl, mix the cactus strips with harissa paste, olive oil, and salt. Toss well to coat.

3

Roast

Spread the marinated cactus on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.

Making Curry Jam

4

Combine Ingredients

In a small saucepan, combine the Malaysian curry paste, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.

5

Cook

Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

Garnishing

6

Chop the Vegetables

Finely chop the scallions and onions (both regular and red). Roughly chop the cilantro.

7

Assemble

Once the cactus is roasted, plate it and drizzle with the curry jam. Top with chopped scallions, cilantro, and both types of onions.