Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy Recipe
Introduction
Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is a delightful condiment that balances tart cranberries with the fiery kick of jalapeños. This vibrant preserve is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to sandwiches, cheeses, or grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups jalapeño peppers, chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the cranberries, chopped jalapeños, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water in a medium pot.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
- Step 3: Carefully pour the hot mixture into sterilized jars.
- Step 4: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before sealing them.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the heat level according to your taste.
- For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before chopping.
- Try adding a teaspoon of grated ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
- Process jars in a water bath canner if you plan to store the candy for an extended period.
Storage
Store the cowboy candy in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, process the sealed jars in a water bath canner according to safe canning guidelines. Reheat gently before serving if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used. Thaw and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid thinning the mixture.
How spicy will this cowboy candy be?
The heat depends on the quantity and type of jalapeños used. Removing seeds will reduce spiciness, and adjusting the amount of peppers lets you control the heat to your preference.
PrintSweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy Recipe
Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Cowboy Candy is a vibrant, tangy condiment that combines fresh cranberries and fiery jalapeños simmered with sugar and apple cider vinegar to create a thick, flavorful preserve. Perfect as a unique topping for cheeses, crackers, or grilled meats, this easy-to-make cowboy candy brings the perfect balance of sweet heat to your culinary creations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 half-pint jars 1x
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups jalapeño peppers, chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, add 2 cups of fresh cranberries, 2 cups of chopped jalapeño peppers, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup water. Stir well to mix all the ingredients together.
- Bring to a Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This step dissolves the sugar and starts the cooking process to release the flavors.
- Simmer and Thicken: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The mixture will thicken and the cranberries will burst, creating a chunky, jam-like consistency.
- Jar the Mixture: Pour the hot cranberry jalapeño mixture carefully into sterilized jars. Use a ladle or spoon to transfer the candy, leaving appropriate headspace.
- Cool and Seal: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, seal the jars with lids and store appropriately as per your desired shelf life.
Notes
- Store the cowboy candy in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks for best freshness.
- For extended storage, process the jars in a water bath canner following proper canning procedures.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the heat level according to personal preference.
Keywords: cowboy candy, cranberry jalapeño jam, spicy condiment, sweet and spicy preserve, jalapeño relish
