Ingredients
- Jalapeño peppers, fresh with stems intact (about 1 pound)
- White vinegar (3 cups)
- Granulated sugar (3 cups)
- Garlic cloves, minced (4 cloves)
- Celery seed (1 teaspoon)
- Turmeric (1/2 teaspoon)
- Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash and thinly slice the jalapeño peppers into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds. Be careful when handling peppers – wear gloves if you are sensitive to the oils.
- Step 2: Combine the vinegar, sugar, garlic, celery seed, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium and carefully add the sliced jalapeños to the syrup. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently. The jalapeños should be slightly softened but still hold their shape.
- Step 4: Using a slotted spoon, remove the jalapeño slices from the syrup and transfer them to sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Step 5: Increase the heat under the syrup and boil for another 6-8 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly. Carefully ladle the hot syrup over the jalapeños in the jars, maintaining the 1/4-inch headspace.
- Step 6: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust processing time for altitude). After processing, let the jars cool completely. Check the seals and store in a cool, dark place. If any jars don't seal properly, refrigerate them and consume within a few weeks.
Notes
- Refrigerate opened jars of Cowboy Candy for extended shelf life and to maintain the peppers' crisp texture.
- For a warm, gooey treat, microwave a few slices with cream cheese on a cracker for a quick appetizer.
- Serve Cowboy Candy as a sweet and spicy topping for burgers, tacos, or even grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Don't overcook the jalapeños in the syrup; they should be slightly softened but not mushy for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American