How to Peel, Cut, and Prepare Prickly Pears Without Getting Thorns in Your Skin

Prickly pears, also known as tunas in Spanish and South Texas English, are a special fruit that requires careful handling due to their thorny skin. This guide will walk you through the process of harvesting, peeling, and preparing prickly pears safely and effectively. By following these steps, you can enjoy this nutritious fruit without the risk of injuring your skin with those pesky thorns.

Harvest and Handling

Prickly pears can be found in various regions, especially in warmer climates where they grow on cacti. When harvesting, use a pair of 12-inch tongs wrapped in masking tape to safely pick the fruits. Ensure the tongs are securely wrapped in tape to provide an excellent grip and prevent any thorns from accidentally scratching your skin.

If you're dealing with larger prickly pears, a Fiskars power tooth hand saw can be a useful tool to quickly slice the fruits into manageable pieces. This technique not only saves time but also ensures that you can handle the fruits safely without getting any thorns stuck in your skin.

Removing the Thorns

Once you have your prickly pears at home, the next step is to remove the thorns. Use the same masking tape 12-inch tongs or any sturdy tongs to hold the fruit securely. Another method is to use a kitchen torch or gas stovetop hob to burn the thorns off the fruit. This process should be done twice, and you should lightly burn the thorns from both the inside and outside of the fruit to ensure they are all removed effectively.

Wear sturdy rubber gloves during this process as a precautionary measure. They will protect your hands from any stray thorns that might not be fully removed during the burning process. By following these steps, you can safely handle the prickly pears without any risk of injury.

Peeling and Preparing the Prickly Pears

To peel the prickly pears, start by cutting them in half along the equator. Lay the cut side face down and then gently remove the peel from the top to the bottom in small, manageable strips. A serrated paring knife works best for this task as the serrated edge provides better control and precision.

Once the entire fruit is peeled, store the pieces in the refrigerator or freezer as per usual. This process not only helps in removing the thorns but also makes the fruit ready for immediate consumption or for use in various recipes.

Creating a TunaRita Cocktail

For those who enjoy a bit of a tastier treat, a TunaRita cocktail is a delightful way to enjoy prickly pears. Here's how to make it:

Reserve one large piece of the peeled prickly pear. Blend this reserved piece in a blender along with 2 fl oz/60 ml of silver tequila, 1/2 oz/15 ml of triple sec, and the juice of 1/2 a Mexican or Key lime. Blend until smooth and then strain the mixture into a cocktail glass. Toast your labors in the TunaRita before sipping.

Savor each sip of this refreshing cocktail, knowing that you've conquered the thorns without any discomfort.

Conclusion

Handling prickly pears might seem daunting, especially with their protective thorns, but with the right tools and techniques, you can enjoy the fruits without any worries. From harvesting with tongs to burning the thorns and peeling the fruit, each step ensures a smooth and safe process. Whether you're using them in a recipe or simply enjoying them as a fresh snack, prickly pears can be a delightful addition to your culinary adventures.