Fruit of the Week: Prickly pear

Name: Prickly pear aka opuntia

Brand: Not sure, but it's from a local grower. Either hothouse or a winter-hardy variety

Place of Purchase: Dahl's in Ankeny, Iowa

Country/Region of Origin: US

Price in Iowa: Two dollah

Description: A blood red hand grenade, with a think skin and blood red flesh.

Flavor: There's sweet and starchy flavors in the fruit, but that's about it. Even the pleasant aroma doesn't come through in the flavor.

Aroma: Melon and banana (amyl). It's a nice, fresh scent.

Texture/Mouth-feel: grainy, meaty, full of 1-2cm diameter seeds.

Notes: Not my favorite. The strong red color and sweetness makes this fruit a good additition to syrups, jellies and juices, but alone it's kind of dull. Considering how ubiquitous these plants are, it might be worthwhile to learn to enjoy them. There are also three libations made from the prickly pear: Colonche, Bajtra Liqueur, and Tungi Spirits. Maybe I can get my mitts on those, too?