Candied Jalapeños Recipe

Cook Time: 18 minutes

This recipe makes 24 servings of tangy, spicy pickled jalapeos. Enjoy them as a topping for tacos, nachos, or any dish that needs a little extra kick. Perfect for those who love a good balance of heat and flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 pound jalapeo peppers
• 1 cups brown sugar
• cup apple cider vinegar
• teaspoon garlic powder
• teaspoon celery seed
• teaspoon ground turmeric
• teaspoon cumin seed
• teaspoon anise seed
• teaspoon salt
• teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 pint-size canning jar

Directions

Step 1: Before starting, make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the heat of the jalapeos. Rinse the peppers well and remove their stems.

Step 2: Slice the jalapeos into -inch slices. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can core out the centers and discard the seeds before slicing the peppers.

Step 3: In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.

Step 4: Add the garlic powder, celery seed, ground turmeric, cumin seed, anise seed, salt, and red pepper flakes to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Add the sliced jalapeos to the pan and simmer for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, just until the peppers soften slightly.

Step 6: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the jalapeos into a pint-size canning jar. Be sure to pack them tightly to make sure the jar is full.

Step 7: Continue simmering the liquid in the saucepan over medium-low heat until it thickens slightly, about 10 more minutes.

Step 8: Pour the hot syrupy liquid over the jalapeos in the jar, ensuring that they are fully covered. Allow the jar to cool to room temperature.

Step 9: If desired, strain the liquid to remove excess seeds before pouring it over the jalapeos.

Step 10: Refrigerate the pickled jalapeos for at least 3 days before consuming to allow the flavors to develop. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 months.

Cook's Note

If you have extra syrup left over, it's fantastic as a spicy simple syrup for margaritas or other cocktails!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size: 1 jar (24 servings per recipe)

Calories	58
Total Fat	0g
Saturated Fat	0g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	27mg
Total Carbohydrates	14g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	14g
Protein	0g
Vitamin C	22mg
Calcium	15mg
Iron	0mg
Potassium	74mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story and Culture of Candied Jalapeos

Candied jalapeos, often referred to as "cowboy candy," have a fascinating origin rooted in the culinary traditions of the American South and Southwest. The recipe likely emerged in Texas and surrounding states, where jalapeos are abundant and home cooks sought creative ways to preserve them. The technique of candying peppers with sugar and vinegar reflects a broader trend of pickling and preserving vegetables, which allowed families to enjoy seasonal produce year-round. Over time, candied jalapeos became a signature Southern treat, blending heat with sweetness in a way that perfectly complements the regions bold flavors.

Regional Variations and Distinctive Characteristics

While the basic recipe remains consistentjalapeos, sugar, vinegar, and spicesregional interpretations exist. In Texas, additional spices such as cumin, garlic, and turmeric may be included for depth, while other areas may opt for simpler versions with just sugar and vinegar. Some regions prefer a thicker syrup to coat the peppers more heavily, creating a sweeter and more robust flavor, whereas others emphasize a lighter, tangier pickling solution. This versatility allows candied jalapeos to adapt to local tastes while retaining their core sweet-and-spicy identity.

Comparison to Similar Dishes

Candied jalapeos differ from traditional pickled jalapeos and other pepper preserves primarily in sweetness and texture. Pickled jalapeos are usually tangier, with vinegar dominating the flavor, while candied jalapeos strike a balance between sugar-induced sweetness and the natural heat of the pepper. Unlike chili jams or hot pepper jellies, candied jalapeos retain a crunchy bite, making them ideal for direct garnishing rather than spreading. This unique combination of sweet, spicy, and crunchy sets them apart from other pepper-based condiments.

Serving Traditions

In American cuisine, candied jalapeos are commonly served as a topping or condiment for burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches. They are also popular on cheese platters, grilled meats, and tacos, where their bold flavor adds a memorable kick. Some chefs incorporate them into more creative dishes such as cornbread, deviled eggs, or even cocktails, where the syrup can serve as a spicy-sweet mixer. Due to their versatility, they are found in both home kitchens and upscale restaurants that specialize in Southern or Tex-Mex cuisine.

Interesting Facts

• Candied jalapeos are sometimes called cowboy candy because ranchers in Texas often made and shared them as gifts.
• The combination of sugar and vinegar not only preserves the peppers but also enhances the natural capsaicin, making the flavor more complex.
• Leftover syrup from candied jalapeos can be repurposed as a spicy addition to cocktails, glazes, or marinades.
• The dish is highly adaptablepeppers can be sliced thick or thin depending on preference, and spices can be adjusted for heat and aroma.
• They have a growing presence in gourmet food markets and online specialty shops, reflecting their popularity beyond traditional Southern cuisine.

FAQ about Candied Jalapeños Recipe

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