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Cowboy Candy Canning Recipe

Sweet and spicy candied jalapeños preserved in a tangy vinegar brine for a crunchy, addictive condiment.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 pint-sized jars
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Calories: 45

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 5 pounds fresh jalapeños washed and dried
  • 2.5 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 5 cups granulated sugar
  • 8 garlic cloves peeled and halved
  • 3 tablespoons yellow mustard seeds
  • 2 teaspoons celery seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon salt for brine; do not use iodized salt
  • 1 teaspoon pickling spice optional

Equipment

  • Large stainless steel pot for boiling water bath
  • Mason jars with lids and bands (pint-sized)
  • Jar lifter
  • Canning funnel
  • Bubble remover or thin spatula
  • Large stainless steel pot for making brine
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Clean kitchen towels

Method
 

  1. Sterilize pint-sized mason jars and lids by submerging them in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes.
  2. Wash jalapeños under cool running water and pat dry, then slice into 1/4-inch thick rings, leaving seeds intact.
  3. Remove jars with a jar lifter and place on a clean kitchen towel while you prepare the brine.
  4. In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and pickling spice; stir until sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes, then add garlic cloves and bring to a rolling boil.
  5. Pack each jar three-quarters full with sliced jalapeños, then use a canning funnel to pour hot brine over peppers, leaving 1/2 inch of liquid cover and 1/4 inch headspace.
  6. Use a bubble remover or thin spatula to release trapped air bubbles by sliding it along the inside of each jar and top off with brine if needed to maintain headspace.
  7. Wipe jar rims with a clean, damp cloth, place lids on jars, and screw bands on fingertip tight.
  8. Process jars in a boiling water bath, ensuring water covers jars by at least 1 inch, for 10 minutes.
  9. Use a jar lifter to remove jars and cool undisturbed on a towel-lined counter for 12 hours until lids seal with a pop.

Notes

Let the jars sit in a cool, dark pantry for at least three weeks before opening for optimal flavor.