more on Prickly pears

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The School of Self-Reliance has information on the benefits of

prickly pear cactus (nopales). Nopalitos (the flat pads) taste a lot

like bell pepper, can be eaten raw or cooked, and is high in fiber

and Vitamin C. According to studies (mostly at Mexican universities

and the Prickly Pear Council in Kingsville, Texas), something about

the pectin acts as a kind of natural insulin for diabetes (although

if you want to try it for diabetes, I'd urge you to do it under the

supervision of an open-minded doctor). The younger, smaller pads are

tastier. You peel them like potatoes; some folks soften the thorns

before peeling by letting them sit in hot water for a little while.

Tunas are the fruits that bulge out at the end of the nopalitos. They

can be eaten raw or cooked, are sweet and high in Vitamin C and make

candy, jam, beverages and syrup.