Description
This Candied Jalapenos recipe, also known as Homemade Cowboy Candy, offers a sweet and spicy treat that pairs perfectly with crackers, cheese, or your favorite dishes. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, these jalapenos are sliced and simmered in a flavorful syrup infused with chili powder, turmeric, and ginger, then preserved for convenient storage.
Ingredients
Scale
Jalapenos
- 1/2 pound jalapeno peppers, sliced into ¼-inch round slices
Syrup and Seasonings
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Slice Jalapenos: Carefully cut the jalapeno peppers into ¼-inch thick round slices, ensuring even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Prepare Syrup: In a pan over medium heat, combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, turmeric powder, and ground ginger. Bring to a boil and then simmer until the sugar fully dissolves, creating a smooth syrup.
- Cook Jalapenos in Syrup: Add the sliced jalapenos to the syrup and simmer gently for about 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the jalapenos to soften slightly.
- Jar the Jalapenos: Transfer the candied jalapeno slices into clean jars and pour the hot syrup over them, making sure the jalapenos are fully submerged.
- Refrigerate: Seal the jars and refrigerate. Let the jalapenos sit for a minimum of a few days before enjoying; they will keep refrigerated for up to 3 months.
- Optional Long-term Preservation: For extended storage, clean jars thoroughly, fill with jalapenos and syrup, seal tightly, and process the jars in a hot water bath canner according to safe canning guidelines. This ensures long-term preservation beyond refrigeration.
Notes
- Wear gloves when slicing jalapenos to avoid skin irritation from capsaicin.
- Adjust chili powder to taste or omit for a milder flavor.
- Use sterilized jars and lids to prevent spoilage if planning for long-term storage.
- Allow the jalapenos to marinate for a few days for best flavor development before serving.
- This recipe can be used as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or cheese platters.
