What is dangerous about the prickly pear fruit and how to peel it?

The main danger of the prickly pear fruit (cactus fruit) is the tiny, almost invisible spines (glochids) that cover its skin. They easily penetrate the skin of the hands and tongue, causing irritation and discomfort. Therefore, never pick up or attempt to peel a prickly pear with bare hands!

How to properly peel a prickly pear:

1. Ask the seller to peel it. In Egyptian markets, sellers are well aware of this feature and will quickly and safely peel the fruit for you using a knife and tongs. This is the easiest and most correct way.
2. If you peel it yourself:
   • Wear thick gloves or wrap the fruit in several layers of paper towel.
   • Place it on a cutting board.
   • Cut off both ends of the fruit.
   • Make a longitudinal cut in the skin and carefully remove it.
3. After peeling: Even a peeled fruit may have residual spines. Rinse it under cold water or wipe it with a damp paper towel.

How to eat prickly pear: The peeled fruit can be sliced into wedges or cubes. Inside is juicy pulp with many small, edible but hard seeds. They can be swallowed or spit out. The taste is refreshing, sweet-sour, reminiscent of a mix of kiwi, melon, and cucumber.

This unusual fruit is definitely worth trying in Egypt! Read more about exotic fruits and how to choose them in our article Fruits in Egypt.

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