Candied Jalapeños, also known as Cowboy Candy, are a sweet and spicy treat that’s perfect for snacking, topping burgers, or adding to cheese boards. These delicious jalapeños are addictive and easy to make.
📋 Ingredients:
- 🌶️ 1 pound fresh jalapeños, sliced into rings
- 🥄 2 cups granulated sugar
- 🍯 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 🥄 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 🥄 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
- 🥄 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 🌿 1 tablespoon garlic powder
📝 Directions:
- Prepare the Jalapeños:
- Wash the jalapeños thoroughly and slice them into 1/4-inch rings. Discard the stems. Set aside.
- Make the Syrup:
- In a large pot, combine the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, celery seed, ground ginger, and garlic powder.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Jalapeños:
- Add the sliced jalapeños to the pot and increase the heat to bring the mixture back to a boil.
- Reduce the heat again and simmer for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the Jalapeños:
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the jalapeños to clean, sterilized jars, packing them in tightly.
- Add the Syrup:
- Bring the remaining syrup in the pot to a full rolling boil.
- Boil for 6 minutes to thicken the syrup.
- Carefully ladle the hot syrup over the jalapeños in the jars, ensuring that the jalapeños are fully submerged. Leave about 1/4-inch headspace at the top of each jar.
- Seal the Jars:
- Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth.
- Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip tight.
- Process the Jars (Optional):
- If you want to preserve the candied jalapeños for long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a towel-lined surface for 24 hours.
- Check the seals after 24 hours. The lids should not flex up and down when pressed in the center.
- Store and Enjoy:
- Store the candied jalapeños in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before opening to allow the flavors to develop.
- Once opened, store in the refrigerator and use within 3 months.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: Makes about 2 pints
Calories: 50 kcal per tablespoon
💡 Notes:
- For less heat, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before slicing.
- Candied jalapeños are perfect for adding to sandwiches, tacos, and nachos, or serving with cream cheese and crackers.
- Always wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.