Capture the vibrant essence of the Southwest with this homemade Prickly Pear Syrup, a sweet and tangy condiment thatβs as versatile as it is stunning. Made from the flesh of ripe prickly pears, this syrup boasts a gorgeous fuchsia hue and a unique flavor profile that balances natural sweetness with a hint of citrusy tartness, thanks to a splash of fresh lemon juice. Ready in just under 40 minutes, this recipe combines simplicity and elegance, featuring only four ingredients: prickly pears, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Perfect for adding a touch of exotic flair to your morning pancakes, cocktails, or desserts, this easy-to-make syrup can transform any dish into a true conversation starter. Store it in the fridge for up to two weeks to savor its bold, fruity flavor whenever inspiration strikes!
Using gloves to avoid contact with the spines, carefully peel the prickly pears. Slice off both ends of each fruit and make a vertical cut through the skin. Gently peel the skin away from the flesh.
Cut the prickly pear flesh into small chunks and place them in a medium saucepan.
Add water to the saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to help break down the fruit.
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the mixture into a bowl, pressing down on the solids to extract as much juice as possible.
Return the strained juice to the saucepan. Add sugar and lemon juice, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Simmer the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove the syrup from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Transfer the syrup to a clean, airtight glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Use your prickly pear syrup in drinks, drizzled over pancakes, or as a topping for ice cream and desserts.
Calories |
1020 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 3.1 g | 4% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 38 mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 262.7 g | 96% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 22.3 g | 80% | |
| Total Sugars | 253.6 g | ||
| Protein | 6.1 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 352 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 1.8 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 1393 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.