Sweet & Spicy Cowboy Candy: Jalapeño Jewels

Sweet Spicy Cowboy Candy Jalapeno Jewels

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 45 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 0.5g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
Alright, y'all, let's talk about somethin' seriously addictive: Cowboy Candy recipe . Ever had that sweet and spicy thing goin' on in your mouth and thought, "Oh my gosh, where has this been all my life?" Well, get ready!
Sweet Heat: The Cowboy Candy Recipe Craze
So, you're probably askin', what the heck is cowboy candy ? simply put, it's candied jalapenos. but it's so much more than that.
It's a flavor explosion. these babies are sweet, spicy, and tangy all at once. honestly? they're downright addictive! this recipe is inspired by classic southern preserving recipes
Little Bites of Flavor Magic
This cowboy candy recipe is easy peasy. the hardest part is just waiting for them to cool! we're talkin' about 20 minutes of prep, 15 minutes of cookin'.
This recipe yields about 2 cups of canned jalapenos deliciousness.
It is worth it to make sure you have all your jars ready and sterilized. canning is a great way to create some garden canning and save them for winter or share as gifts.
Why You Need These in Your Life
Okay, so what's so great about cowboy candy ? beyond the killer taste, jalapenos are packed with vitamin c. these are perfect for your next bbq.
Imagine these on a burger or a charcuterie board? yeah, game changer. plus, making your own cowboy candy recipe is way cooler than buying it at the store, right? it's a simple way to try some salsa canning recipes that is outside the norm.
Now, let's talk ingredients. you'll need about 1 pound of fresh jalapenos. you'll also need sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a few spices.
Don't be scared of home canning recipes ! this one is a great place to start.
Ingredients & Equipment for Cowboy Candy Recipe: Jalapeño Jewels
Ready to make some seriously addictive Sweet & Spicy Cowboy Candy? Oh my gosh, you're in for a treat! Seriously, this Cowboy Candy recipe is a game changer!
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter
- 1 pound fresh jalapeño peppers, stemmed and sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds (about 450g). I like to go for nice, firm peppers. Avoid the ones that are bruised or feel soft. Freshness is key!
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g). Plain ol' white sugar does the trick here!
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (120 ml). This gives it that awesome tang. I use Bragg's, but any brand works.
- 1/4 cup water (60 ml). Nothing fancy here.
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic. Adds a subtle savory note.
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder. For color and a hint of earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed. Don't skip this! It adds a really unique flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat). Now, this depends on your spice tolerance. I sometimes add a little more…don’t judge!
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life!
This cowboy candy recipe is all about balance. the garlic, turmeric, and celery seed create a flavor that complements the sweet and spicy.
If you don't have celery seed, a pinch of ground celery salt can work in a pinch, but honestly, it's worth getting the real deal.
For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes instead of cayenne. these candied jalapenos are just so damn good.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven. You need something that can hold all those peppers!
- Slotted spoon. For fishing out the peppers later.
- Sterilized jars and lids. Essential if you want to can these babies. This makes for great garden canning and preserving! I also find myself looking for salsa canning recipes .
- Candy thermometer (optional, but helpful). If you're aiming for a specific syrup consistency, this is your friend.
- Tongs. For handling the peppers safely.
- Gloves (highly recommended!). Trust me on this one. You don't want jalapeño hands. Lesson learned the hard way! These are fantastic home canning recipes , you can add canned jalapenos to anything! It's a great way for canning vegetables and great for your preserving recipes .
So, now you're all set! Let's get this Cowboy Candy party started! Remember, always focus on safety, especially when canning, and enjoy the process!
Alright, let's dive into the wonderful world of cowboy candy recipe ! it’s also known as candied jalapeños. they're sweet, spicy, and oh-so-good.
Trust me, you'll be hooked! did you know that preserving recipes like this goes way back?
Sweet & Spicy Cowboy Candy: Jalapeño Jewels
Honestly, this cowboy candy recipe is so easy. i was a bit scared to try it at first. you know? but seriously, don't let the word "candy" fool you.
It's got a kick! these jalapeño jewels bring the heat.
This recipe is beginner friendly. prep time? about 20 minutes . cook time? only 15 minutes . you will want to let them cool.
Let it cool for a minimum of 2 hours , but overnight is best. it makes roughly 2 cups .
Prep Steps: Let’s Get Organized!
First, the mise en place is key. get all your ingredients ready. having everything prepped saves a ton of time.
You'll need about 1 pound of fresh jalapeños. slice them into 1/4 inch thick rounds. don’t forget those gloves! protect your hands.
Step-by-Step Process: Making the Magic Happen
Ready to cook?
- Glove Up and Slice: Wear gloves and slice jalapeños into rounds.
- Combine Ingredients: Add 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon of celery seed, and a pinch of cayenne (optional!) to a large saucepan.
- Boil and Stir: Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add Jalapeños: Toss in your sliced jalapeños.
- Simmer Time: Lower heat and simmer for 10- 15 minutes . The jalapeños should soften. The syrup should thicken slightly.
- Jar 'Em Up: Transfer jalapeños to sterilized jars. Leave 1/2 inch of headspace.
- Pour Syrup: Pour the syrup over the jalapeños. Make sure they're covered. Adjust as needed.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Cool at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours .
Pro Tips: Secrets to Sweet & Spicy Success
Okay, here's the good stuff! don't overcook the jalapeños! mushy candy? no, thanks! aim for slightly softened, still firm. also, for safety, sterilize your jars.
Especially if you're planning on long term storage. salsa canning recipes are great for this! the flavor gets better with time.
Seriously, wait the 2 hours .
So, grab some fresh jalapeños, and let's get started. this candied jalapeños recipe will be a hit. i love serving these on charcuterie boards.
They also taste amazing on burgers! give it a try, and tell me what you think. it will become one of your go-to home canning recipes .
Alright, partner, let's talk about makin' the most outta your Sweet & Spicy Cowboy Candy: Jalapeño Jewels ! I mean, this Cowboy Candy recipe is already pretty darn fantastic, but there's always room for a little somethin' extra, ya know?
Recipe Notes: Wranglin' the Details
These ain't just canned jalapenos ; they're like little explosions of flavor! before we get into the nitty gritty, remember: safety first! hot peppers ain't playin' around.
Now, these aren't your grandma's salsa canning recipes (unless your grandma is secretly a badass). these are candied jalapenos taken to the next level.
Servin' 'Em Up Right
Okay, so you've got your jar of Cowboy Candy , lookin' all pretty and shiny. Now what? Honestly, the possibilities are endless!
- Platin' & Presentation Ideas: Picture this: a rustic wooden board, a hunk of creamy brie, some crispy crackers, and a little dish of your homemade Cowboy Candy . Boom! Instant appetizer goals. Or, pile 'em high on a juicy burger for a sweet and spicy kick that'll knock your socks off.
- Complementary Sides or Beverages : I love pairing these with an ice-cold beer or a crisp, dry white wine. The sweetness of the Cowboy Candy cuts through the richness of the cheese and the alcohol. You know?
Storage Tips: Keepin' 'Em Fresh
Listen up, this is important! You don't want your hard work goin' to waste.
- Refrigeration Guidelines: Once opened, keep your Cowboy Candy in the fridge. They'll last for a good couple of weeks, maybe even longer if you're good about not double dipping.
- Freezing Options: Honestly, I've never tried freezin' 'em. I'd be worried about the texture gettin' weird. But if you're brave enough, give it a shot!
- Reheating Instructions: No need to reheat! These are best served cold or at room temperature.
Variations: Puttin' Your Own Spin On It
This Cowboy Candy recipe is just a startin' point. Feel free to get creative! That's the beauty of preserving recipes , especially home canning recipes .
- Dietary Adaptations: Try using a sugar substitute like erythritol. But be warned, it might affect the texture a bit.
- Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the fall, throw in a pinch of pumpkin pie spice for a cozy twist. In the summer, maybe a little lime zest.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness (and Heat!) Inside
Let's be real, this ain't exactly a health food. BUT, it's a delicious treat that can add a little zest to your life.
- Simplified Nutrition Information: Each serving is roughly around 40-50 calories.
- Key Health Benefits: Jalapeños do contain capsaicin, which has some anti inflammatory properties. But let's be honest, you're eatin' this for the flavor, not the health benefits! I love garden canning and canning vegetables myself.
So there you have it, folks! my thoughts on makin' the most of your cowboy candy . now go forth and create somethin' delicious.
And remember, don't be afraid to experiment! who knows, you might just stumble upon your own secret ingredient.
These cowboy candy are the perfect introduction to canning vegetables . with these easy preserving recipes , it's a great intro to home canning recipes .
Get started on your garden canning journey today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Cowboy Candy? Is it just spicy candy for cowboys?
Well, partner, it's not just for cowboys (city folk are welcome too!). Cowboy Candy is the nickname for candied jalapeños. The recipe transforms ordinary jalapeños into sweet, spicy, and tangy little flavor bombs that are surprisingly addictive, a bit like that marmalade Paddington Bear is so fond of, but with a serious kick!
This Cowboy Candy recipe sounds intense! Can I tone down the heat at all?
Absolutely! You're the sheriff of your own spice level. You can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or skip it altogether for a milder batch. You could even try removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before slicing them if you're particularly sensitive.
Think of it like ordering a "mild" curry you still get the flavour, just less fire!
How long will this homemade Cowboy Candy last? And what's the best way to store it?
If you're not canning the cowboy candy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It'll keep for about 2-3 weeks, though it's usually devoured long before then! If you properly can the cowboy candy using a boiling water bath method, it can last for a year or more in a cool, dark pantry, much like a good bottle of vintage sherry.
Can I use different types of peppers for this Cowboy Candy recipe, or is it strictly a jalapeño only show?
While jalapeños are the classic choice, you can definitely experiment! Serranos will give you a similar flavour with a bit more heat, while habaneros will bring the inferno. Just remember to adjust the amount depending on the pepper's heat level.
Start small and taste as you go think of it like mixing drinks, you want to find the right balance!
I'm trying to be a bit healthier. Is there any way to make a lower sugar version of this cowboy candy recipe?
You can try reducing the sugar by about 1/4 cup, but be aware that this will affect the syrup's consistency and the candy's shelf life, especially if you are canning. Alternatively, you could substitute up to half of the sugar with honey for a different flavour profile.
But, remember the sugar is there for a reason - it helps with preserving, and this is more of a treat, like a cheeky slice of cake - enjoy in moderation!
Besides eating it straight from the jar (guilty!), what are some creative ways to use my Sweet and Spicy Cowboy Candy?
Oh, the possibilities are endless, from a condiment, appetizer to a pizza topping! Cowboy Candy is fantastic on charcuterie boards, burgers, tacos, nachos, or served with cream cheese and crackers. Try dicing it up and adding it to your next batch of cornbread for a sweet and spicy twist.
It's like that secret ingredient your grandmother used to add everyone will wonder what makes it so good!