Description
These addictive sweet and spicy jalapeños are a Southern pantry staple. Fresh sliced peppers are simmered in a reduced bath of apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, and spices until they reach a candy-like consistency. Perfectly balanced with a punch of heat and a syrupy finish, they are the ideal topping for burgers, crackers, or cream cheese spreads. This shelf-stable preserve uses simple, natural ingredients to transform a summer harvest into a delicious year-round condiment.
Ingredients
2 pounds fresh jalapeños, firm and bright green
2 cups apple cider vinegar (5% acidity)
6 cups granulated sugar
0.5 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon celery seed
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Slice the jalapeños into even quarter-inch rings using a sharp knife or mandoline (wear gloves to avoid skin irritation).
Discard the stems and keep seeds for added heat.
Combine apple cider vinegar, sugar, turmeric, celery seed, and garlic powder in a large heavy-bottomed pot.
Bring to a steady boil over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar is fully dissolved.
Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
Add the sliced jalapeños to the pot and simmer for 4 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer peppers into clean, sterilized jars.
Boil the remaining syrup for an additional 6 minutes to reach full candy consistency.
Pour the hot syrup over the peppers in the jars, leaving a small amount of headspace.
Seal and store as desired.
Notes
Always wear food-safe gloves when handling 2 pounds of jalapeños to protect your hands from capsaicin. For the best crunch, do not overcook the peppers. Store in the refrigerator for immediate consumption or can them using standard water-bath canning procedures for shelf stability.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Trending
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
