Cactus Cookbook

Here is a unique cookbook that ran three editions - the first in 1971, the second in 1972 and the third some years later in 1976 by the Cactus and Succulent Society of America. it is a book of International Cookery, although living in Canada I am unsure where many or any cactus and succulent grow purely for culinary consumption. I only find the houseplant variety and perhaps there is a reason why... the colder climate. 

Needless to say this charming cookbook is a novelty for most. It is written as any cookbook and demonstrates the versatility of such succulents by, nutritional analysis, basic preparation of succulents, appetizers, soups and salads, entrées, vegetables, breads, desserts, beverages, candy and food preservation plus a very brief glossary of terms that consists of 13 words. Most recipes are gathered from the warm southern States such as California, Texas, Arizona, and Hawaii. Although there a few recipes from Colorado. With cutesy illustrations to keep one lightly amused and more accurate detailed illustrations of said succulents. Novelty or not there seems to be some nutritional value in the way of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium and Phosphorus.

I am unsure where I may find such a specific ingredient as, Cactus Pear however wanted to share a recipe with the thought that maybe someone somewhere could make this.

Cactus Pear, Date and Carrot Cake

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2 3/4 cups white sugar

2 1/2 cups warm water

1 cup fresh dates (cut each date in 4 pieces)

2 teaspoons butter (rounded)

3 teaspoons cinnamon (level)

2 teaspoons allspice (level)

1 teaspoon cloves (level)

2 teaspoons nutmeg (level)

2 tablespoons chopped CACTUS PEAR

1 cup raisins

1 cup grated carrots

Cook these ingredients slowly for 10 minutes. Let cool. Then add:

2 1/2 cups flour

3 teaspoons soda (baking soda)

1 cup nut meats (chopped)

1 1/2 cups more flour (add this last flour slowly until blended well)

This cake can be baked as layers or in square loaf pans. Bake 1 hour and 15 minutes, at 350 degrees, or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

 Recipe by: Virginia Rushton, California - Gates Cactus & Succulent Society 

Hope everyone is having a nice week. Plenty of sunshine during the day and bright full moons illuminating the nights sky. - JD