Pineapple Cowboy Candy

Pineapple Cowboy Candy combines the sweetness of ripe pineapple with the bold heat of jalapeños, creating a unique and flavorful condiment. The tangy pickling solution, made from apple cider vinegar, water, ginger, and mustard seeds, brings a savory kick that perfectly complements the tropical sweetness of the pineapple. With a touch of chili flakes for heat and black mustard seeds for texture, this dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Ideal as a topping for grilled meats, sandwiches, or even enjoyed as a quick bite on cheese and crackers, Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a versatile and exciting addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking to spice up your barbecue spread or add a zing to your favorite dish, this vibrant and zesty pickle offers a delicious way to elevate everyday meals.

The combination of fresh pineapple and the heat from jalapeños creates a flavor-packed treat that’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their sweetness. This recipe is simple to prepare and will add an exciting flair to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique and flavorful – The combination of sweet pineapple and spicy jalapeños offers a bold and surprising flavor contrast.
2. Versatile – It’s great as a topping for burgers, grilled meats, sandwiches, or paired with cheese and crackers.
3. Easy to make – With simple ingredients and an easy pickling process, this recipe comes together quickly.
4. Customize the heat – You can control the level of heat by adjusting the number of jalapeños or chili flakes.
5. Perfect for summer – This fresh and zesty recipe is ideal for outdoor barbecues, picnics, or serving as an appetizer.

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Ingredients

For the pineapple cowboy candy:

• Pineapple
• Jalapeños

For the pickling water:

• Fresh ginger
• Apple cider vinegar
• Water
• White granulated sugar
• Black mustard seeds
• Chili flakes
• Salt

Variations

• Adjust the sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar amount to taste.
• Use different peppers – For a different flavor, you can substitute jalapeños with serrano peppers, or use a mix of sweet and spicy peppers.
• Add other spices – Feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin, coriander, or turmeric to enhance the flavor.
• Try with other fruits – Instead of pineapple, you could use mango or peaches for a slightly different tropical twist.
• Make it milder – If you want a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use less chili flakes.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Peel and core the pineapple, then cut it into bite-sized chunks. Set aside.

Step 2

Slice the jalapeños into thin rounds, and remove the seeds if you want a less spicy pickle.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, black mustard seeds, chili flakes, salt, and fresh ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

Step 4

Once the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is simmering, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5

In a large jar or bowl, layer the pineapple chunks and jalapeños. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the pineapple and jalapeños, ensuring everything is fully submerged.

Step 6

Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 7

After the pickling process, the Pineapple Cowboy Candy is ready to serve. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Be cautious with the jalapeños – The longer they sit in the pickling liquid, the spicier they will become. Taste the liquid before pickling to ensure it’s at the heat level you prefer.
• Use a sterilized jar – Make sure your jar is clean and sterilized to keep the pickles fresh longer.
• Adjust the pickling time – If you prefer a more tangy flavor, allow the mixture to pickle for a longer time, up to 3 days.
• Store in small batches – If you plan to use this often, store in small jars to keep the pickles fresh as you go.

How to Serve

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is an excellent topping for grilled meats, especially BBQ meats like pulled pork, burgers, or sausages. It also pairs wonderfully with cheese and crackers, offering a sweet and spicy contrast. You can add it to tacos or sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor, or serve it as an appetizer with a cold drink. The sweetness and spice make it a delightful contrast to rich or fatty dishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the Pineapple Cowboy Candy in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh and not ideal for freezing, as freezing may change the texture of the fruit and affect the pickling liquid.

Reheating

If you prefer to warm it up, you can briefly heat the pickled pineapple and jalapeños in a saucepan on low heat, but it’s typically served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of fruit?

Yes, you can substitute pineapple with mango, peaches, or even pears for a different fruit-based pickle.

2. How spicy is Pineapple Cowboy Candy?

The level of spiciness depends on the amount of jalapeños and chili flakes used. Adjust these to your taste preference.

3. How long should I let it pickle?

For the best flavor, let the pineapple and jalapeños pickle for at least 24 hours, but you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

4. Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, if you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the amount of sugar to taste.

5. Do I need to sterilize the jar?

Yes, sterilizing the jar will ensure your pickles stay fresh for longer. Simply wash the jar in hot soapy water and dry it thoroughly, or boil it for 10 minutes.

6. Can I make this recipe without the mustard seeds?

Yes, the mustard seeds add flavor and texture, but if you don’t have them, you can omit them or substitute with another spice, like cumin.

7. Can I use a different vinegar?

You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or rice vinegar, but the flavor profile may change slightly.

8. Can I use a different pepper instead of jalapeños?

Yes, you can substitute with other peppers like serranos or even bell peppers for a milder version.

9. How can I make this spicier?

To make it spicier, increase the number of jalapeños or add more chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the pickling liquid.

10. How long will Pineapple Cowboy Candy last?

It will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a zesty and sweet-spicy pickled treat that adds a unique twist to any meal. Whether you’re using it as a topping, a side dish, or a snack, its combination of fresh pineapple and bold jalapeños offers an irresistible contrast of flavors. Quick to make, customizable to your heat preference, and perfect for serving at barbecues or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

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