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.