Tex-Mex Nopalito Tacos (Cactus Tacos)

When getting the nopales, if you're getting them straight from a cactus plant, first make sure you're not trespassing on anyones land (they'll shoot first in Texas) and then make sure that the cactus is fresh. The brighter spring green color they are, the fresher. Before you cut it off the plant, take a good sized paring knife and cut off as many spines as possible. This will make the whole de-spining process much easier. Then boil the nopales about 10 min or until slightly limp. Then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Cook nopales,onion, potato and bell pepper in skillet on non-stick cooking spray for about 5-10 min. Add spices, s & p, tomato and jalapenos. Meanwhile, heat refried beans either on stove or in microwave. Then heat flour tortillas over open flame (i like them slightly burnt in places). For each tortilla, add a pinch of soy cheese, a spoonful of refried beans and a heap of the nopal mixture. Should have between three and four tacos each. Can top with salsa or whatever. Viva el Nopal!
*For homemade refried beans, soak a 1 lb of pinto beans overnight. The next day, boil the beans for 1-2.5 hours or until done. Drain. Take beans and fry on skillet with vegetable oil. Take bean/potato masher and mash beans until thick paste is formed. You can spice with chili powder, salt, pepper, garlic, cumin, lime juice, etc.