THE TUNA: THE MOST MEXICAN FRUIT

One of the most emblematic fruits of Mexico, easy to find and recognize, sold everywhere, and an incredibly delicious and refreshing food for hot weather... let's talk about tunas.

The fruit of the Opuntia Ficus Indica cactus is known as tuna. These fruits have always amazed people worldwide, as they symbolize resilience and adaptability.

As part of Mexican identity, the tuna plays a significant cultural role. Archaeological evidence shows it has been used and cultivated for over 12,000 years, both as food and as a natural remedy for various ailments such as stomach issues, colds, cholesterol control, and as a dietary option for people with diabetes.

In pre-Hispanic Mexico, the nopal and the tuna have always carried immense mythological and spiritual significance. It is believed that Huitzilopochtli, the god of war, guided the Mexica people to the place where they were to found Tenochtitlán, telling them they would find their destiny when they saw an eagle perched on a nopal, devouring a serpent.

This beautiful legend is so deeply rooted in Mexican identity that it has become part of the national symbolism. In fact, our national emblem features the very image the Mexica saw upon arriving in Tenochtitlán, and, of course, the nopal bears beautiful red tunas.

Tunas were highly valued in the economy of ancient Mexico, considered precious items for trade. They played a significant role in establishing trade routes across different regions, fostering cultural exchange and the expansion of agricultural and culinary knowledge throughout Mesoamerica.

With the arrival of the Spanish, the value of the tuna and the nopal was recognized, and they were introduced to other continents, incorporating both products into the Mediterranean diet. While Mexico remains the world's leading producer of tunas, countries like Italy, Chile, and South Africa are also significant producers and exporters.

Around the world, tunas are known by different names. In Mexico, the sweet ones are called "tunas," while the sour variety is known as "xoconostle" (a staple in Querétaro for salsas and jams). In Spain, they are called "higo de las Indias" or "chumbera." In the Canary Islands, they are referred to as "tunos," and the nopal is called "tunera." In Portugal, they are known as "tabaibeira" or "figueira da Índia," and in the United States, they are called "prickly pear" or "cactus pear."

Tell me, have you tried tunas yet? Enjoy!