Food in the Desert

The shape and color of prickly pear is amazingly attractive. 

I'm attempting to paint this patch:

Now, I'm not sure who eats these.  Some research is warranted. But I'm wondering if anyone ever kept thirst and hunger at bay from a meal of the fruit. 

You can find recipes here:

http://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/prickly-pear-zmaz76soztak.aspx#axzz38f1nTglW 

Apparently, the fruit can be made into jelly, wine, and a host of other things.  I think I've see the fruit at Fiesta markets.