The nopal cactus is native to Mexico and has been a part of the country's cuisine for centuries. It was even a staple food for the Aztecs! The word "nopal" comes from the Nahuatl word "nochtli" which means "prickly pear." The cactus paddles are also sometimes called "cactus leaves" or "prickly pear cactus paddles ." The nopal cactus is a type of succulent and is part of the cactus family. It grows in arid climates and can reach up to 15 feet in height. The plant has long, flat paddles that are covered in small spines. The paddles are the part of the plant that is used in cooking.
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