Description
Cowboy Candy with Pineapple is a sweet and spicy jalapeño preserve that combines the heat of fresh jalapeños with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. This quick-pickle style recipe uses a spicy-sweet syrup infused with turmeric, celery seed, ginger, and garlic powder to create a versatile condiment perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or as a zesty addition to cheese boards. The recipe yields flavorful jars ready in just over half an hour, designed for easy canning or refrigeration.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1½ lbs fresh jalapeños, sliced into rings
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced into small chunks
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- â…” cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Produce: Wash the fresh jalapeños thoroughly, then slice them into thin rings. Dice the fresh pineapple into small, even chunks to ensure consistent texture.
- Make the Syrup: In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, celery seed, ground ginger, and garlic powder. Place over medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently until the sugar has completely dissolved, which takes approximately 5 minutes.
- Add Peppers & Pineapple: Stir in the sliced jalapeños and diced pineapple into the syrup mixture. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 to 6 minutes, just until the jalapeños soften slightly but maintain their vibrant color and crunch.
- Jar It Up: Using a slotted spoon, fill sterilized half-pint jars with the jalapeño and pineapple pieces. Carefully ladle the hot syrup over the fruit and peppers, filling the jars while leaving about a ½ inch headspace at the top.
- Seal & Cool: Wipe the rims clean and seal each jar with sterilized lids. If you plan to refrigerate, allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. For longer shelf life, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to properly can and seal them.
- Rest Before Using: For optimal flavor, let the jars rest for at least 24 hours before opening, although waiting 1 to 2 weeks will provide the best taste as the flavors meld and mature.
Notes
- Wear gloves when slicing jalapeños to protect skin from irritation.
- Adjust sweetness and heat by varying the amount of sugar and cayenne pepper to your preference.
- Sterilize jars and lids properly to ensure safe canning and preservation.
- Store refrigerated jars for up to 3 months once opened.
- This recipe is excellent served as a condiment on burgers, tacos, or paired with cream cheese and crackers.
