Region of Origin
Commodity:
Maguey Leaves
Description & Origin
Maguey (mah-gay) is an incredible plant in the agave family with a storied history. This succulent is closely related to the agave plant used to make tequila. Despite appearances, it is not a cactus, nor is it closely related to aloe vera. The leaves of the maguey plant are thick and long (up to several feet) with a pointed tip. The broad, flat leaves are a dusky gray-green color and bordered by s...
Other Names
Hojas de Maguey, Pencas de Maguey
Health Benefits & Nutrition
The maguey plant has been used in Mexican traditional medicine since Aztec times for a multitude of ailments. Most medicinal use is from the sap of the plant’s heart, but juices from the leaves have been believed to aid digestion and help with wound healing.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
The maguey plant is enormously important in traditional Mexican cuisine and culture. The leaves of the maguey plant are most commonly used to make barbacoa or mixiotes. In the former, whole leaves are roasted and used to wrap meat, often lamb, that is barbecued low and slow. In the latter, the thin papery skin of the leaf is used to wrap marinated meats before they are roasted. Mixiotes are often served with avocado and tortillas.
Flavor Pairings
Dried Chiles, Nopales, Onion, Garlic, Lime, Corn, Egg, Lamb, Goat, Chicken
How to Prepare
Wash leaves. If planning to cut or trim the leaves, use gloves and other protective clothing as the sap may be irritating to those that are not accustomed to it. If using whole, leaves are usually grilled or roasted for a short time to soften. If using the skin, peel slowly from the leaves. Note that maguey leaves should not be consumed raw.
How to Store in the Kitchen
Maguey leaves are often stored at ambient temperature, but can also be refrigerated to extend the shelf life.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
The leaves of the maguey plant can also be used as roofing tiles, spouts, cups, and more. If cooked, just add them to the compost heap!
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
45-50°F
TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
40-54°F (Cool Storage)
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
85-95%
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Yes
Quality Assessment
Look for leaves that are smooth, firm, and free from excessive mechanical damage. Some scarring is normal and to be expected.
Important Handling
Leaves can be damaged by rough storage. Leave enough room to stack the bundles, which can be a challenge.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, maguey leaves may last up to 1 week.
