Sweet & Spicy Cowboy Candy: A Texan Delight

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In Texas, where everything is bigger and bolder, there's a unique treat that's become a favorite for those who love a mix of sweet and spicy. Known as Candied Jalapeños or "Cowboy Candy," this delicious condiment brings a burst of flavor to any dish it touches. Whether you're adding a kick to your burgers, giving some zest to your potato salads, or even sneaking a bite straight from the jar, these candied jalapeños are sure to impress. And the best part? They make fantastic gifts or a tasty treat to keep on hand for yourself.

The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Heat

Imagine the fiery heat of fresh jalapeños mellowed by a sticky, sweet syrup—this is the magic of Cowboy Candy. It’s a true representation of Texan cuisine, where bold flavors are celebrated and where sweet and spicy often go hand in hand. The jalapeños are sliced and simmered in a sugary vinegar syrup until they’re perfectly tender, soaking up all the spicy, tangy, and sweet goodness. They’re then preserved in jars, ready to be added to anything you want to spice up.

Recipe: Texas-Style Candied Jalapeños (Cowboy Candy)

Ingredients:

• 3 cups white sugar
• 2 pounds fresh jalapeños, de-stemmed and sliced into thin rounds
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon celery seed

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Jalapeños: Put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands from the heat of the peppers. Remove the stems from the jalapeños and slice them into thin rounds. Set them aside.
2. Make the Syrup: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the apple cider vinegar, white sugar, garlic powder, ground turmeric, cayenne pepper, and celery seed. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Jalapeños: Add the sliced jalapeños to the pot. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 4 minutes, until the jalapeños are just starting to soften but still have some crunch.
4. Jar the Jalapeños: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeños to clean, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
5. Prepare the Syrup: Turn the heat back up under the pot and bring the remaining syrup to a full, rolling boil. Boil for about 6 minutes, until the syrup thickens slightly.
6. Fill the Jars: Carefully pour the hot syrup over the jalapeños in the jars, making sure the peppers are fully submerged. Use a clean knife or a skewer to remove any air bubbles from the jars, and then wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth.
7. Seal the Jars: Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are just fingertip-tight. If you plan to store the jars for a longer period, process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Otherwise, let the jars cool on the counter and then store them in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.

A Texan Tradition in Every Bite

These candied jalapeños are more than just a condiment—they’re a conversation starter. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, heading to a potluck, or just looking for a new way to spice up your meals, Cowboy Candy is a versatile addition to your kitchen. The balance of heat and sweet makes them an exciting topping for everything from grilled meats to sandwiches, and even cream cheese on crackers for a quick snack.

In Texas, they say everything is bigger, and that includes flavor. With each jar of homemade Candied Jalapeños, you’re capturing a bit of that Texan spirit—bold, unapologetic, and always ready to spice things up!

For a delicious Texas-style take on Candied Jalapeños, also known as "Cowboy Candy," there are a few key steps to follow to create this sweet and spicy treat that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes.

Ingredients and Preparation

To make Texas-style Candied Jalapeños, you'll need fresh jalapeños, sugar, vinegar (apple cider or a mix of apple cider and red wine vinegar), and a blend of spices like turmeric, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and celery seed. Start by slicing the jalapeños into 1/4-inch rounds. It’s recommended to wear gloves while handling jalapeños to avoid irritation from their oils.

Cooking Process

The jalapeño slices are simmered in a syrup made from vinegar and sugar until they become tender but still retain some crunch. This simmering process allows the jalapeños to absorb the sweet and spicy flavors of the syrup. After simmering, the jalapeños are transferred into sterilized jars. The remaining syrup is then boiled again to thicken before being poured over the jalapeños in the jars​(Belly Full,Urban Cowgirl,Chili Pepper Madness).

Storing the Candied Jalapeños

For long-term storage, the jars can be processed in a hot water bath to seal them, allowing them to be stored in a pantry for up to a year. Alternatively, if you're planning to use them sooner, the jars can simply be stored in the refrigerator for several months​(Chili Pepper Madness,Hey Grill, Hey).

For more detailed instructions and tips on making your own Cowboy Candy, you can check out recipes from Belly Fulland Urban Cowgirl. These sources offer comprehensive guides on crafting this flavorful condiment at home.