Nopal Beginnings

The catalyst for my journey started with a bag of chips. Back in the day when I wasn't avoiding people, I would frequent Torrance's Farmer's Market that sets up every Tuesday and Saturday at Madrona Park on Crenshaw. A vendor invited me to sample one of her green, hulk-looking "tortilla" chips. It was delicious - and crunchy! The vendor-lady encouraged me to investigate the health benefits of Nopal - stating the Aztecs and Mayans knew of it's incredible powers. This didn't exactly set me on a course to find low, to no meat foods - it inspired me to investigate world cultures, anthropology, and unique substitutes or alternatives to modern-day favorites. 
Immediately, I thought this could be a great product for Costco members. I contacted several manufacturers in California but none were able to comfortably supply the volume needed to fulfill a national Costco order. I'd need at least 850 pallets of nopal chips every three to four weeks - and that just could not be done. It's possible today I could find a vendor with this capacity but that ship has sailed and I'm onto new interests. 
If you get a chance, try these chips with your favorite salsa or dip. I'm certain you'll enjoy the crunch and novelty of nopal. If you're interested in learning what the Aztecs and Mayan's knew - check out this TikTok short I created: