Name: Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups of diced fresh pineapple.; 1 cup of thinly sliced jalapeño peppers.; 1 cup of apple cider vinegar.; 2 cups of granulated sugar.; 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.; 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds.; 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder.; 1 tablespoon of grated ginger.; 2 cloves of finely chopped garlic.

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a unique and flavorful condiment that blends the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the zesty heat of jalapeños. The combination of apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, and spices creates a syrupy sauce that perfectly complements the fruit and peppers. This candy can be used as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or tacos, and it also pairs wonderfully with cheeses or as a snack on its own. The preparation involves simmering the ingredients until the mixture thickens and then canning it to preserve the vibrant flavors. This recipe is an excellent way to add a sweet and spicy kick to your favorite dishes.

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors that adds a unique twist to your meals. This recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of heat with their sweetness.

INGREDIENTS

3 cups of diced fresh pineapple: Adds natural sweetness and texture.
1 cup of thinly sliced jalapeño peppers: Brings the heat and a slight crunch.
1 cup of apple cider vinegar: Provides the tangy base for the syrup.
2 cups of granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture and helps create the syrupy consistency.
2 tablespoons of lemon juice: Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor.
1 teaspoon of mustard seeds: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder: Enhances the color and adds a mild, peppery flavor.
1 tablespoon of grated ginger: Provides a warm, spicy note.
2 cloves of finely chopped garlic: Adds depth and a slight pungency to the mix.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Get a big saucepan and toss in the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, mustard seeds, turmeric powder, grated ginger, and chopped garlic. Let it come to a nice boil, then turn down the heat and let it simmer until the sugar's all melted in.
Step 2:: Now, toss in the diced pineapple and those jalapeño slices into the saucepan. Let everything simmer away over a medium flame until the pineapple's soft and the liquid's turned all syrupy. It'll take about 20 minutes or so.
Step 3:: While that's cooking, get your jars and lids sterilized by dunking them in boiling water for at least 5 minutes.
Step 4:: Once your pineapple mix is ready, carefully spoon it into your sterilized jars, making sure to leave a bit of space at the top. Wipe the jar rims clean, pop on the lids, and then give them a nice hot water bath for about 10 minutes.
Step 5:: Once they're out of the bath, let the jars cool down completely. Before you stash them away in a cool, dark spot, double-check those seals.

Serving and Storage Tips

Here are some tips on how to serve and store your Pineapple Cowboy Candy:

Serve it as a condiment with grilled meats or burgers.
Use it as a topping for tacos or nachos for an extra kick.
Add a spoonful to your favorite salad for a sweet and spicy twist.
Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Once opened, keep the jars refrigerated and use within a month.

Helpful Notes

Here are some additional tips and variations for the recipe:

For less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before slicing.
You can substitute canned pineapple if fresh pineapple is not available.
Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preference.

Tips from well-known chefs

Advice from famous chefs to elevate your Pineapple Cowboy Candy:

Chef Bobby Flay suggests adding a splash of tequila for an extra depth of flavor.
Chef Jamie Oliver recommends using organic ingredients for the best taste and quality.
Chef Ina Garten advises ensuring all ingredients are evenly diced for consistent cooking.