I have to say with absolute certainty that prickly pears, or Tunas, as we call them in Mexico, are my favourite fruit in the whole wide world. Growing up in Monterrey, I looked forward to late summers, when tunas would be in season. My Nanny would go to the market and buy whole cases and as she would peel them, they would be devoured by my siblings and I.
Tunas are the fruit of the nopal cactus, and they come in red, green or golden varieties. All are delicious, but none as good as the golden ones. Unfortunately, they are never exported and even in Mexico, they are getting harder and harder to find. Still, I would never discriminate a tuna and I will eat whatever you put in front of me.
In Canada we only get red ones, and I have to say, I love the colour. Eating out of hand is my favourite, but making drinks with them is my second choice. It is so easy to make aguas frescas and this one is no exception. Just peel, chop, blend, strain, add a bit of lime juice, sugar to taste and a bit more water. That is that. Serve over ice and enjoy. Best summer drink ever!
Agua Fresca de Tuna
Prickly Pear Cooler
4 prickly pears, peeled and chopped
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 cup sugar or sweetener of choice, or to taste
4 cups water
Ice cubes
Place prickly pears in blender jar and add 2 cups water.
Blend over medium speed until fruit is broken up completely, but not so much that you break up the seeds.
Strain into a 4 cup measure and press on the seeds to strain all the juice.
Add lime juice and sugar to taste.
Stir to make sure sugar is dissolved, pour into a pitcher and add 2 more cups of water.
Serve over ice.
Makes 1 litre.