To prepare cactus:
Select small barrel cactus. With long sharp knife remove spines and outer layers. Cut the pulp crosswise in 1" cubes, and cook in boiling water until tender, about 1 hour. drain.
To prepare syrup:
3 Cups sugar
1 cup water
2 tbsp orange juice
1 tbsp lemon juice
powdered or granulated sugar for garnish
Heat all ingredients together until sugar is dissolved.
Measure 2 quarts of cactus cubes and add to syrup. Cook until nearly all of the syrup is absorbed, being careful not to scorch. Keep heat low, and stir occasionally with a wooden spoon to keep candy from sticking. Remove cactus from syrup. Drain and roll in granulated or powdered sugar.
For colored candy, and veggie coloring may be added to the syrup.
Navajo
