Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy A Sweet, Spicy Treat
Cowboy Candy, also known as candied jalapeños, is a sweet, spicy, and tangy condiment made by simmering jalapeños in a syrup of sugar, vinegar, and spices. It’s a versatile topping that adds bold flavor to everything from burgers and sandwiches to cornbread and even ice cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
8 ounces jalapeño peppers (8 to 12 medium), thinly sliced
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon yellow or brown mustard seeds
1/4 teaspoon celery seeds
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Trim and thinly slice the jalapeños crosswise.
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves (about 4 minutes).
- Add the sliced jalapeños and continue to boil, stirring frequently, until they appear shiny and slightly shriveled, about 4–5 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeños to a glass pint jar.
- Continue boiling the syrup until it reduces by about 1/3 and becomes slightly thickened, about 5–10 minutes.
- Pour the syrup over the jalapeños in the jar and press down to ensure they are fully submerged.
- Let cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate. Store for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
- Use as a topping for burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, cornbread, or even ice cream.
- The syrup can also be used as a glaze for grilled meats or vegetables.
- Add a pinch of chili powder for extra smoky flavor.
- Let the cowboy candy sit for at least 24 hours in the fridge to deepen the flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tablespoons
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
