Cowboy Candy Recipe (with Video)

Cowboy Candy Recipe: Cowboy Candy is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors, featuring candied jalapeños. This versatile condiment has a perfect balance of sugary syrup and fiery heat, making it a hit in everything from sandwiches to charcuterie boards.

Originating from the southern United States, Cowboy Candy has grown in popularity as a fun and flavorful addition to many dishes.

Ingredients

To make Cowboy Candy, you’ll need:

• Fresh jalapeños (2 pounds, approximately 20 medium-sized peppers).
• White granulated sugar (6 cups).
• Apple cider vinegar (2 cups).
• Ground turmeric (½ teaspoon).
• Ground ginger (½ teaspoon).
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon).
• Celery seed (¼ teaspoon).
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat).

Optional Add-Ons
Feel free to customize your recipe with:

• Honey for added sweetness.
• Lemon zest for a tangy twist.
• A pinch of cinnamon for a unique flavor.

Tools and Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer for jalapeños.
• Cutting board.
• Large saucepan for cooking the syrup.
• Canning jars (8-10 half-pint jars).
• Jar lifter and funnel.
• Large pot or canner for processing jars.

Pro Tip: Invest in a good mandoline slicer to ensure uniform jalapeño slices for even cooking.

Preparing the Jalapeños

1. Choose the Best Jalapeños: Look for firm, bright green peppers with smooth skin. Avoid any that are soft or wrinkled.
2. Wash Thoroughly: Rinse the jalapeños under cold water to remove dirt or pesticides. Dry them with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Slice with Care: Wear gloves to protect your hands from the capsaicin in the peppers. Slice the jalapeños into ¼-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer.

Note: Removing the seeds reduces the heat slightly, but leaving them in ensures a spicy kick.

Making the Syrup

1. Combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, ginger, garlic powder, and celery seed in a large saucepan.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This creates the sticky, flavorful syrup that will candy the jalapeños.

Optional Additions: If you’re using red pepper flakes or honey, add them to the syrup for an extra layer of flavor.

Cooking the Jalapeños

1. Add the sliced jalapeños to the simmering syrup. Stir gently to coat them evenly.
2. Increase the heat slightly and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the jalapeños turn glossy and translucent.
3. Remove the jalapeños with a slotted spoon and transfer them to sterilized jars.

Canning the Cowboy Candy

1. Pour the remaining hot syrup over the jalapeños in the jars, leaving about ¼-inch of headspace.
2. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a proper seal. Place the lids on top and screw the bands until fingertip-tight.
3. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes to preserve them.

Pro Tip: Adjust processing time based on altitude. For higher elevations, add 5 extra minutes.

Cooling and Storing

• Allow the jars to cool at room temperature for 24 hours.
• Check the seals to ensure they’re airtight. Any jars that didn’t seal properly should be refrigerated and used within 2-3 weeks.

Serving Suggestions

Cowboy Candy is incredibly versatile! Try it:

• As a topping for burgers, hot dogs, or tacos.
• Mixed into cream cheese for a spicy dip.
• Paired with crackers and cheese on a charcuterie board.
• As a sweet and spicy glaze for grilled meats.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Always sterilize your jars and lids before starting to ensure food safety.
• Stir the jalapeños gently to prevent breaking them apart.
• Let the Cowboy Candy sit for at least two weeks to develop the best flavor.

Health and Safety Precautions

• Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
• Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within a month.

FAQs about Cowboy Candy Recipe

What is cowboy candy?

Cowboy candy refers to candied jalapenos. These are sliced jalapenos preserved in a syrupy mixture that’s both sweet and spicy. It’s a versatile condiment that can be used to enhance the flavor of meats, sandwiches, and even cocktails.

How do you make cowboy candy?

To make cowboy candy, slice fresh jalapenos, then simmer them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices like turmeric, celery seed, and garlic. The jalapenos are cooked until they become vibrant and the syrup thickens, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes.

Can I adjust the spice level in cowboy candy?

Absolutely! The spice level of cowboy candy can be adjusted by removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before cooking them. For an extra spicy kick, include some of the seeds in your recipe.

How long does cowboy candy last?

When properly stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator, cowboy candy can last for up to 2 months. Ensure the jars are sterilized if you plan to preserve them for an extended period.

What are some serving suggestions for cowboy candy?

Cowboy candy can be served as a topping on cream cheese for a quick appetizer, added to burgers for an extra zing, or even used as a glaze on grilled meats. Its sweet and spicy flavor also makes it a unique addition to cheese boards.

Conclusion

Making Cowboy Candy is a fun and rewarding experience that brings a burst of flavor to any dish. With this step-by-step guide, you can confidently create a batch of sweet and spicy candied jalapeños to share with friends and family. So, grab those jalapeños and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!