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Pineapple Cowboy Candy Recipe

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3.9 from 10 reviews

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a sweet and spicy preserve featuring juicy pineapple chunks and fiery jalapeños simmered in a tangy apple cider vinegar syrup with mustard seeds, red chili flakes, and ginger. This easy stovetop recipe creates a versatile condiment perfect for enhancing cheese boards, sandwiches, and grilled meats.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings (about 2 cups of cowboy candy)
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Produce

  • 1 large pineapple, peeled and chopped into chunks
  • 3 jalapeno peppers, sliced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced

Pantry

  • 1 ½ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 tbsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tbsp red chili flakes
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, red chili flakes, salt, and sliced ginger. Stir to dissolve the sugar and evenly mix the spices.
  2. Boil and simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Add pineapple and jalapeños: Stir in the pineapple chunks and sliced jalapeños. Continue to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the pineapple turns translucent and the syrup thickens slightly, indicating the candy is ready.
  4. Remove from heat: Take the saucepan off the heat to stop the cooking process.
  5. Fill jars: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pineapple and jalapeños into sterilized jars, leaving some space at the top for the syrup.
  6. Pour syrup over fruit: Carefully pour the hot syrup over the fruit in each jar until the contents are fully covered to ensure preservation.
  7. Seal the jars: Secure the lids tightly on the jars to lock in freshness.
  8. Cool and refrigerate: Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator.
  9. Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3 months. This candy makes a flavorful addition to many dishes and develops flavor over time.

Notes

  • Use sterilized jars to prevent contamination and prolong shelf life.
  • For less heat, remove jalapeño seeds before slicing.
  • Adjust sugar and chili flakes to taste for sweetness or spiciness preference.
  • This recipe can be doubled or tripled easily for larger batches.
  • Allowing the candy to rest for a few days enhances flavor melding.