Candied Nopalitos (Nopalitos en alm?bar)

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
4 young cactus paddles, all spines removed

Bring water and sugar to a boil over medium to medium-high heat.

Meanwhile cut clean nopalitos into 1 x 3-inch pieces or into small shapes with a cookie cuter. Rinse the nopalitos under cold water until the mucous-like substance that can be seen along cut portions disappears. Add the nopalitos to the boiling syrup, turn the heat down until it is just a bare simmer, and cook for 15 minutes.

With tongs, remove the nopalitos to a plate and spoon some syrup over them. Serve with coffee and dessert after a meal.