Ingredients
Jalapeños
- 20 jalapeños
Syrup and Seasonings
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups packed brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Aleppo pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Jalapeños: Slice the jalapeños into thin rounds and set them aside to use later in the recipe.
- Make the Syrup Base: In a saucepan over high heat, combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, turmeric, garlic powder, and Aleppo pepper. Stir mixture to dissolve sugars and mix spices evenly.
- Boil and Simmer Syrup: Bring the mixture to a strong rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Jalapeños and Cook: Add the sliced jalapeños into the saucepan, then increase the heat back to high. Let the jalapeños cook in the syrup for 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and absorb the sugary, spicy brine.
- Remove Jalapeños: Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the cooked jalapeños and transfer them to a clean jar or heatproof container.
- Reduce the Brine: Keep the syrup boiling on high heat for about 7 minutes more to thicken it slightly and concentrate the flavors, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Combine and Store: Pour the hot syrup carefully over the jalapeños in the jar, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let the jar cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Allow at least a few hours (ideally a day) for flavors to develop before using. Store the Cowboy Candy for up to 3–4 months in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Use gloves when slicing jalapeños to avoid irritation from the capsaicin oils.
- The longer the jalapeños rest in the syrup, the more flavorful and tender they become.
- Adjust the amount of Aleppo pepper for milder or hotter heat depending on your taste preference.
- These candied jalapeños are great as a topping on burgers, sandwiches, tacos, or mixed into cheese spreads.
- Ensure jars are sterile or very clean to maximize shelf life and food safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
