Cowboy candy, or candied jalapeños, is a sweet and spicy treat that adds a kick to any dish. This recipe combines fresh jalapeños with a sugary syrup, creating a unique condiment that can be used on sandwiches, burgers, or as a topping for nachos.
The process is simple and requires minimal ingredients. You can adjust the sweetness and heat level according to your preference, making it a versatile addition to your pantry.
What is Cowboy Candy?
Cowboy candy, commonly known as candied jalapeños, offers a delightful combination of sweetness and heat.
This unique treat enhances a variety of dishes, making it a popular condiment for sandwiches, burgers, and nachos.
The balance of flavors creates an exciting addition to any meal, appealing to those who appreciate bold tastes.
Preparing the Jalapeños
To start making your cowboy candy, fresh jalapeños are essential.
Wearing gloves is recommended while slicing the peppers into rings, especially if you want to control the heat level by removing the seeds.
This step is crucial for achieving the desired spiciness in your final product.
Creating the Sweet Syrup
The syrup is the heart of this recipe, combining sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a blend of spices.
In a medium saucepan, mix the ingredients and bring them to a boil, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
This sweet and tangy mixture will coat the jalapeños, infusing them with flavor.
Cooking the Jalapeños
Once the syrup is ready, it’s time to add the sliced jalapeños.
Return the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes.
During this time, the jalapeños will soften, and the syrup will thicken, creating a perfect blend of textures.
Jarring the Cowboy Candy
After cooking, use a slotted spoon to transfer the jalapeños into sterilized jars.
Pour the syrup over the peppers, ensuring there’s enough liquid to cover them while leaving some headspace at the top.
Seal the jars tightly to preserve the flavors and freshness.
Storing and Enjoying
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator.
While cowboy candy can be enjoyed right away, letting it sit for a few days allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
This sweet and spicy condiment is sure to become a staple in your pantry, ready to elevate any dish.
Homemade Candied Jalapeños
This cowboy candy recipe features sliced jalapeños cooked in a sweet syrup made from sugar, vinegar, and spices. The preparation takes about 30 minutes, and the finished product can be stored in jars for several weeks.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh jalapeños, sliced
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional for color)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Wear gloves to slice the jalapeños into rings, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
- Make the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, turmeric, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook the Jalapeños: Add the sliced jalapeños to the syrup and return to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the jalapeños are tender and the syrup thickens slightly.
- Jar the Cowboy Candy: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeños to sterilized jars. Pour the syrup over the jalapeños, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Seal the jars with lids.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. The cowboy candy can be enjoyed immediately but tastes even better after a few days of marinating.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 16 servings
- Calories: 50kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
