Pineapple Cowboy Candy

Introduction to Pineapple Cowboy Candy

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, combining the tropical juiciness of pineapple with the heat of jalapeños. Originating as a twist on traditional Southern-style Cowboy Candy (which typically uses only jalapeños), this recipe has become a versatile condiment perfect for pairing with cheeses, meats, sandwiches, or even as a standalone treat.

Ingredients

• Fresh pineapple (diced): 3 cups
• Jalapeño peppers (thinly sliced): 1 cup
• Apple cider vinegar: 1 cup
• Granulated sugar: 2 cups
• Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
• Mustard seeds: 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
• Grated ginger: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic (finely chopped): 2 cloves

Instructions

1. Prepare the Syrup: Combine vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, mustard seeds, turmeric, ginger, and garlic in a large saucepan. Heat until boiling, then reduce to simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Cook the Pineapple and Jalapeños: Add the diced pineapple and jalapeño slices to the saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple becomes tender and the syrup thickens.
3. Sterilize the Jars: While the mixture cooks, sterilize jars and lids in boiling water for 5 minutes.
4. Can the Mixture: Carefully spoon the hot pineapple and syrup mixture into sterilized jars, leaving some space at the top. Wipe the rims, seal the jars tightly, and process them in a hot water bath for about 10 minutes.
5. Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool at room temperature, ensuring the lids seal properly. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within one month.

Conclusion

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a versatile and irresistible recipe that pairs sweet tropical flavors with a spicy kick. It’s ideal for enhancing charcuterie boards, grilled meats, or simple snacks. Whether you prepare it as a gift or keep it for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to adjust the heat levels to suit your preference or experiment with additional ingredients like citrus zest for extra depth.