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The Mesquite Tree was an essential source of food for desert-dwelling Native Americans. Mesquite beans grow in pods on the trees. When ripe, these were harvested and then placed into large baskets. Left out in the hot sun, the beans softened as they fermented in the moist heat of the baskets. Later, after drying out, they became extremely hard and could then be ground up in a metate. This produced a flour that was very high in protein and could be rolled and baked, or roasted. The dried beans lasted for a long time without spoiling and thus provided a reliable food resource during the winter months. Return to Desert Wildflowers Gallery |
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