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Small Batch Cowboy Candy Recipe

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4.2 from 6 reviews

This Small Batch Cowboy Candy recipe is a quick and easy way to create a sweet and spicy jalapeno pickle relish perfect for enhancing BBQ, smoked cream cheese, and many other dishes. With a delightful balance of heat from fresh jalapenos and sweetness from sugar combined with apple cider vinegar and aromatic spices, this homemade candy adds a punch of flavor in just 30 minutes.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 4-6 Jalapenos
  • 1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/2 cup Water
  • 1 1/2 cups Sugar (or low carb sweetener if preferred)
  • 2 small Bay Leaves
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Smoky Paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jalapenos: Wearing gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils, remove the stems from the jalapenos and slice each one into 1/4 inch thick rounds to ensure even pickling and flavor absorption.
  2. Make the Syrup: In a pot, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, bay leaves, salt, and smoky paprika. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat to fully dissolve the sugar and extract flavors from the spices.
  3. Add Peppers and Infuse: As soon as the syrup comes to a boil, transfer the sliced jalapenos into the pot and immediately turn off the heat. Allow the peppers to sit in the hot syrup for 15 minutes, letting them soak up the sweet and spicy flavors.
  4. Jar the Cowboy Candy: Using a slotted spoon, carefully place all the jalapeno slices into an 8 oz jar. Pour the syrup mixture over the peppers until they are completely submerged and the jar is filled to the rim.
  5. Seal and Store: Seal the jar tightly with a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill and develop flavors before using. Enjoy your cowboy candy with BBQ dishes, on smoked cream cheese, or your favorite snacks.

Notes

  • Always wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid irritation from the capsaicin.
  • Use a low carb sweetener instead of sugar if you want a diabetic-friendly version.
  • Store the cowboy candy refrigerated and consume within 2-3 weeks for best freshness.
  • The flavor intensifies as it sits, so it’s best after at least a day of refrigeration.

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/small-batch-cowboy-candy-recipe/