Trimmed lechuguilla hearts are placed on top of a layer of prickly pear pads in this experimental oven. Beneath the pads are hot rocks. The pads protect the lechuguilla from burning and add moisture. The lechuguilla hearts will be covered with more prickly pear pads and then a thick layer of earth. The steamy heat inside will slowly cook the lechuguilla and break down complex, inedible carbohydrates into simple sugars. Photo by Phil Dering.
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