Cactus Fries (Nopalitos Fritos)

1. 1

   ["Remove thorns and ""eyes"" from cactus, and trim off the edges of pads.", "Blanch cactus for 2 minutes in a covered pan with enough boiling salted water to cover; drain.", "Cut cactus in 3- to 4-inch strips similar to French fries; set aside.", "Combine cornstarch and achiote paste in a blender or food processor, and pulse until smooth.", "In a medium-size bowl, combine flour and baking powder, add cornstarch mixture, and blend well.", "In another bowl, beat egg white to stiff meringue.", "Fold into the flour mixture, alternating with enough ice water to make batter the consistency of unbeaten egg white; chill.", "Dredge cactus strips in batter, and fry in deep hot oil (375u00b0 on the thermometer) until crisp and golden, approximately 3 minutes.", "Drain well and serve."]

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.