Posted by If you’re a fan of sweet and spicy flavors, this Pineapple Cowboy Candy recipe is your ultimate go-to condiment. Combining the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple with the heat from jalapeños, this vibrant, tangy concoction packs a punch of flavor that will complement a variety of dishes. Whether you’re using it as a topping for grilled meats, a dip for appetizers, or simply as a bold side dish, this recipe brings an exciting burst of heat and flavor to your table. Perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and spicy in every bite, this homemade cowboy candy adds a unique twist to your everyday meals.
Ingredients
- 3 cups of fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup of thinly sliced jalapeño peppers
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon of finely grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
How To Make
Step 1: Preparing the Flavor Base
Begin by gathering a large saucepan, one that will comfortably hold all of your ingredients. Pour the apple cider vinegar into the pan, followed by the granulated sugar and lemon juice. These ingredients will form the foundation of your syrup. Stir in the mustard seeds, turmeric powder, freshly grated ginger, and finely minced garlic. The mustard seeds and turmeric powder will add subtle yet distinct flavors that balance the sweet pineapple and the heat of the jalapeños. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the flavors begin to meld together.
Step 2: Cooking the Pineapple and Jalapeños
Once the sugar mixture is fully dissolved, it’s time to add the diced pineapple and thinly sliced jalapeños. The fresh pineapple will infuse its sweetness into the syrup, while the jalapeños bring a kick of heat and a slight crunch. Stir to combine, ensuring the pineapple and jalapeños are well-coated in the syrup. Lower the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes. During this time, the pineapple will soften and release its natural juices, creating a rich, syrupy consistency. The syrup should thicken, and the flavors will become even more pronounced as the pineapple infuses the liquid. Be sure to stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Step 3: Sterilizing Your Jars
While your pineapple and jalapeño mixture is cooking, take the time to sterilize your jars and lids. Sterilizing your jars is an essential step to ensure your cowboy candy lasts and stays safe to consume. You can do this by submerging your jars and lids in a pot of boiling water for about 5 minutes. This process will eliminate any bacteria or contaminants, keeping your homemade candy fresh and ready for storage.
Step 4: Canning the Cowboy Candy
Once the pineapple and jalapeño mixture has cooked down and thickened to a syrupy consistency, it’s time to jar it. Carefully spoon the hot mixture into your sterilized jars, making sure to leave about half an inch of space at the top. This will allow for any expansion during the canning process. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth to ensure there are no residues that could interfere with the sealing process. Secure the lids tightly on each jar.
Step 5: The Hot Water Bath
Next, place your sealed jars in a large pot of boiling water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Process the jars in the hot water for about 10 minutes to properly seal them. This step helps to ensure that your cowboy candy is preserved, allowing you to store it for later use. Once the jars have been processed, remove them from the water and set them aside to cool. As they cool, you’ll hear the satisfying sound of the jars sealing. This indicates that your homemade pineapple cowboy candy is safely stored for future enjoyment.
Step 6: Cooling and Storing
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before moving them to a cool, dark place for storage. It’s essential to check the seals on the jars before storing them, ensuring they are properly sealed to avoid spoilage. Once sealed, this sweet and spicy condiment can be stored for several months, ready to be enjoyed as a tangy accompaniment to your favorite dishes. For best results, let the jars sit for at least 24 hours before using them so that the flavors have time to fully develop.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Cowboy Candy recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and heat. The combination of fresh pineapple and jalapeños creates a condiment that is as versatile as it is flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a zesty topping for grilled chicken, a flavorful dip for chips, or just a tangy addition to your everyday meals, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of homemade cowboy candy.
Simple Pineapple Cowboy Candy Recipe
If you’re short on time but still want to make this tangy and sweet treat, here’s a simplified version of the Pineapple Cowboy Candy recipe for you to follow.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Category
Side Dishes
Difficulty
Easy
Cuisine
American
Yield
4 jars
Ingredients
- 3 cups of fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup of jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the diced pineapple and sliced jalapeños, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pineapple is soft and the syrup thickens.
- While the mixture simmers, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 5 minutes.
- Carefully spoon the hot mixture into the sterilized jars, leaving about half an inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims clean, seal the jars, and process them in a hot water bath for 10 minutes.
- Let the jars cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Notes
This sweet and spicy condiment is perfect for adding flavor and heat to your favorite dishes. It’s easy to make and can be stored for months, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen pantry.
