prickly pear mash

[pfshine]

I have access to a whole lot of prickly pear so i would like to do a mash of it. I know it has been done before and can make an aromatic whiskey but i am wondering where to start. Should i skin them first or should i just cook as is for nutrients and squish them real good. I have also been thinking of adding other things to the mash to give it a more manly taste like corn and wheat or barley. Just wondering what you think. Any ideas are helpful thanks.