Some people who traveled with us told me they had never seen and tasted the “Fico d’India,” the fruit of a tropical plant you find in Sicily, so I thought it a good idea to talk about it and show you a few pictures.
The so-called “Prickly Pear,” also known as “Opuntia” or “cactus pear,” is a plant native to Central America but introduced to many parts of the world.
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What makes the prickly pear genuinely unique is its fruit. It has an egg-shaped look with a distinctive appearance with its bright reddish-pink or orange skin and tiny spines covering its surface. The spines can be pretty sharp, handling them requires care, so don’t bother and try them already peeled.
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This fruit is known for its unique flavor, combining sweetness with a hint of acidity, often also described as a cross between watermelon and pear with a touch of kiwi. The flesh is incredibly juicy and refreshing, a treat, especially on hot summer days.
You must be cautious of the edible seeds as they can be hard to bite. The first time I tasted them, I thought they were the most strange thing ever, then I gave them another chance and, yes, they are a fun and different bite experience!
They are a culinary delight and a symbol of Sicily and its culture. Their colorful and succulent presence in the streets and markets of the island is a characteristic image of Sicilian summer.
Come to Sicily for your holiday and try this tropical delicacy! I will show you all the excellent and authentic places to find them.
I personally love them…as you can see! 😁
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