Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a sweet and spicy southern delight. If you love a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, then Pineapple Cowboy Candy is about to become your new favorite treat. It takes only 10 minutes to make, and it can be used in several different ways.
What is Pineapple Cowboy Candy?
Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a modern take on the classic cowboy candy recipe.
Traditional cowboy candy uses only jalapeño, but adding tropical fruits like pineapple brings together the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the zesty heat of jalapeños.
Perfect for any occasion, whether as a condiment, snack, or appetizer, this dish has taken the culinary world by storm—especially among fans of Southern and Southwestern cuisine.
The process of making cowboy candy involves simmering the sliced jalapeños in the syrup until they’re tender and coated, then typically preserving them in jars for later use.
Ingredients you need for Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Pineapple - Use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple as the canned pineapple is too soft and when it's cooked in the syrup, it can turn mushy.
Jalapeño - Use fresh Jalapeño. Jalapeño adds a mild heat and balances the flavor. Based on how spicy the Jalapeños are, you can remove the seeds and leave it.
Apple cider Vinegar - The syrup can be made with regular white vinegar too, but apple cider vinegar adds to the taste and flavor.
Spices - You can use your choice of spices. I used chili flakes and black mustard seeds.
Ginger - Fresh ginger goes excellent with pineapples. Use good quality organic ginger.
Steps to prepare
Slice the pineapple into bite size pieces.
If the Jalapeño is too spicy, discard the seeds. Make thin slices of the jalapeños.
As for the fresh ginger, you could either finely chop or thinly slice.
In a heavy bottom pot, prepare the brine liquid by adding apple cider vinegar, water, ginger, mustard seeds and chili flakes along with white granulated sugar. Bring it to boil and stir to dissolve the sugar.
Next, add the pineapple and jalapeño.
Let it simmer for 10 minutes. The liquid will reduce a little. Let it cool down completely before you store in a clean dry airtight jar.
Please keep in mind that based on how sweet or sour the pineapple is, you might have to add more or less sugar.
How to Serve
Pineapple Cowboy Candy is incredibly versatile. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy it:
As a Relish or Topping: Spoon it over grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or steak for a delicious contrast of flavors. It’s also perfect on burgers, hot dogs, or tacos.
Add as a topping on this Asparagus Prosciutto Phyllo Tart or switch the fresh pineapple and use the pickled pineapple for Grilled Paneer Pineapple Tart
In a Salad: Toss it in a fresh salad for a sweet and spicy kick. It pairs particularly well with arugula, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette.
Add few pieces in this Panzanella Salad
With Cheese and Crackers: Add a spoonful of Pineapple Cowboy Candy to a cheese board. It goes wonderfully with soft cheeses like cream cheese, goat cheese, or brie.
Instead of grapes, use the pickled pineapple and jalapeño with baked brie
On Charcuterie Boards: Include Pineapple Cowboy Candy as part of a charcuterie spread. The sweetness and spice will complement cured meats, olives, and other savory treats.
As a Snack: For an easy and fun snack, enjoy it straight from the jar. The contrast of heat and sweetness makes it hard to stop at just one bite!
Besides its delicious flavor, Pineapple Cowboy Candy also offers some health benefits:
- Pineapple is Rich in Vitamins: Pineapple is packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and bromelain, an enzyme that can aid in digestion and reduce inflammation.
- Spicy Peppers are Good for Metabolism: Jalapeños contain capsaicin, which can help boost metabolism and even reduce appetite. Plus, they have antibacterial properties.
- Low-Calorie Snack Option: Despite being sweet, Pineapple Cowboy Candy is relatively low in calories compared to many other sugary snacks or condiments, making it a great choice for those looking for a healthier option.
More condiments to make at home
Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make treat that offers a perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy. Whether you’re looking to add some pizzazz to your meals or want a unique homemade gift, this twist on the classic cowboy candy recipe is sure to impress.
Pineapple Cowboy Candy
Ingredients
- 1 Pineapple
- 3 Jalapeño
For the picking water
- 1.5 Inch Fresh ginger
- 2 Cups Apple cider vinegar
- 2 Cups Water
- 1 Cup White granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Black mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon Chili flakes
- ½ teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Cute the pineapple into bite size cubes. Slice the Jalapeños and finely chop the ginger
- In a heavy bottom pan, add all the ingredients mentioned for pickling water.
- Bring the pickle water to boil to dissolve the sugar. And then add the jalapeños along with the pineapple.
- Bring it to boil and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Taste for sweetness and add more sugar if needed. Once it cools down completely and comes to room temperature, store in a clean airtight bottle. Serve right away or store in the fridge.
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