Under The Texas Sun: A Modern Day Cowgirl Harvest

I have always wanted to do a prickly pear harvest. As someone who isn't attracted to color per say, my wardrobe consists of blue, black and brown, but I love the natural colors found in the wild. The color of the prickly pears, happens to be my favorite color of pink. 

Amazingly enough it is also the color of the natural dye of the Cochineal bugs that are found on the cactus, related, I would imagine so. 

A week or so ago, home in Texas, I took some time to harvest some gorgeous fruits from the cactus. I want to just first, before I say too much more, say two things. I acknowledge the indigenous people of the land I was harvesting from, and the animals that also call that place home. I also want to name this was my first harvest of prickly pears. 

If you know me well, or have been following me for awhile, you know that harvesting plants, wild foods and medicines is one of my favorite things, so this felt extra special to do so with my horse by my side. 

I decided to try a syrup recipe, which I am familiar with for using elderberries. I took the basic principals of, covering the fruit with water, simmering on the stove, and adding sugar and honey to taste. At the end I added a little lemon juice concentrate, to help bring out the flavors of the prickly pear. I didn't measure anything.

Somethings to do different for next time

• I should have cut the fruit when I put it in the pot, instead of trying to reduce it whole (they're tough!)

• I would maybe next time try citric acid instead of lemon juice. Citric acid brings flavor out without adding the flavor of lemons

• also, the little spikes only hurt for a day, but they will also stick to your reins

The syrup turned out great. I drizzled it onto some fresh baked cornbread, and also tried it with some sparkling water. Both so good.

Thank you so much for following along, and I hope this gives you the permission you need to go and harvest something wild. Please remember good harvesting practices remind us to leave some for others, to harvest in a way that is healthy for the plant, and also to remember those that came before us.

w/love Shele