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Easy Candied Jalapeño Cowboy Candy Recipe Perfect for Spicy Snacks

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A straightforward, smoky-sweet candied jalapeño recipe that balances heat and sugar perfectly, ideal for snacking or topping burgers and cheese boards.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (wear gloves to avoid irritation)
  • 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup (120 ml) water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry jalapeños thoroughly. Wearing gloves, slice into thin rings about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick, removing seeds if preferred.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, salt, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Place saucepan over medium heat and bring mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve sugar, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add sliced jalapeños to the simmering syrup. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until syrup thickens and jalapeños soften but hold shape.
  5. Test syrup consistency by dipping a spoon and letting it cool briefly; it should coat the back of the spoon thickly like honey. Continue simmering if too thin, avoiding burning.
  6. Using a slotted spoon, transfer jalapeños into sterilized glass jars. Pour syrup over peppers until fully covered, leaving about ½ inch (1 cm) headspace.
  7. Let jars cool to room temperature before sealing with lids. Store in refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. For best flavor, wait at least 24 hours before serving.

Notes

Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning. Stir gently to keep jalapeño rings intact. Slow simmering is key to avoid crystallization. For smoky depth, add smoked paprika if desired. Store in refrigerator up to 4 weeks; flavors improve after a couple of days.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied jalapeños, cowboy candy, spicy snacks, jalapeño recipe, sweet and spicy, homemade condiment

Find it online: https://sagestirs.com/easy-candied-jalape-n-o-cowboy-candy-recipe-perfect-for-spicy-snacks/