Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly

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Introduction:

Looking for a unique and flavorful addition to your pantry? Look no further than Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly. This delectable jelly combines the sweetness of fresh pineapple with the heat of Cowboy Candy peppers, resulting in a mouthwatering spread that’s perfect for everything from breakfast toast to cheese platters. Follow this simple recipe to create your own batch of homemade Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly that will surely impress your taste buds and guests alike.

Ingredients:

  • 1 fresh pineapple, trimmed and cut into cubes
  • 1 small 4-oz jar Cowboy Candy (see recipe below)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons butter (to reduce foaming)
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 package Sure-Jel fruit pectin
  • 6 cups sugar

Instructions:

  1. Begin by placing the cubed pineapple into a food processor and pulsing until finely chopped, ensuring not to puree it.
  2. Transfer the finely chopped pineapple into a large stockpot, aiming for around 4 cups of pineapple.
  3. Into the stockpot, add the Cowboy Candy, lemon juice, butter, crushed red pepper flakes, and Sure-Jel fruit pectin.
  4. Over high heat, bring the mixture to a boil, stirring often to ensure even cooking.
  5. Once boiling, add all the sugar at once and stir well. Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil (one that continues even while stirring).
  6. Allow the mixture to boil vigorously for 1 minute.
  7. Remove the stockpot from the heat and carefully ladle the jelly into prepared mason jars, leaving a small amount of headspace.
  8. Seal the jars with rings and lids, then process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper preservation.
  9. After the processing time, carefully remove the jars from the boiling water bath and place them on your kitchen countertop to cool for 24 hours.
  10. You’ll know the jars are properly sealed when the button in the middle of the lid is fully depressed.
  11. While the jelly cools, gently shake the jars from time to time to evenly distribute the pineapple and pepper pieces throughout.
  12. Once cooled and set, store the jars on your pantry shelf for up to one year. Remember to refrigerate any opened jars for prolonged freshness.

Yield: This recipe yields approximately 7 to 8-ounce jars of delightful Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly, ready to elevate your culinary creations.

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serving Suggestions:
    • Spread Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly over warm toast or freshly baked biscuits for a delightful breakfast treat.
    • Use it as a glaze for grilled meats such as chicken or pork to add a sweet and spicy kick to your dishes.
    • Incorporate it into cheese platters as a unique and flavorful accompaniment to your favorite cheeses.
    • Mix it into salad dressings or marinades for a tangy and zesty twist.
    • Pair it with crackers or crusty bread for a simple yet delicious appetizer.
  2. Storage Instructions:
    • Store unopened jars of Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight.
    • Once opened, refrigerate any remaining jelly to maintain its freshness and flavor.
    • Properly sealed jars can last for up to one year on the pantry shelf, while refrigerated leftovers can typically be enjoyed for several weeks.
    • Ensure that lids are tightly sealed after each use to prevent air from entering the jar and compromising the jelly’s quality.
    • If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold growth or an off odor, discard the jelly immediately.

Variations of Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe:

  1. Mango-Pepper Jelly: Substitute fresh mango chunks for pineapple to create a tropical twist on this recipe. The sweet and juicy flavor of mango pairs wonderfully with the spicy kick of Cowboy Candy peppers.
  2. Pineapple-Habanero Jelly: For those who enjoy an extra fiery kick, replace the Cowboy Candy peppers with habanero peppers. Be sure to adjust the quantity according to your spice preference, as habaneros are significantly hotter than Cowboy Candy peppers.
  3. Peach-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly: Swap out the pineapple for ripe peaches to add a luscious stone fruit flavor to the jelly. The natural sweetness of peaches complements the heat from the Cowboy Candy peppers, creating a perfectly balanced jelly.
  4. Pineapple-Ginger Pepper Jelly: Incorporate freshly grated ginger into the jelly for a fragrant and spicy twist. Ginger adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pineapple and the heat of the peppers.
  5. Pineapple-Jalapeño Jelly: Opt for milder jalapeño peppers instead of Cowboy Candy peppers for a more approachable level of spiciness. Jalapeños still provide a satisfying heat while allowing the fruity flavors of pineapple to shine through.
  6. Triple Pepper Jelly: Combine a variety of peppers, such as Cowboy Candy, jalapeño, and bell peppers, to create a complex and multi-dimensional flavor profile. Experiment with different pepper combinations to find the perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
  7. Citrus Infusion: Add zest and juice from citrus fruits such as lime, orange, or grapefruit to brighten up the flavor of the jelly. Citrus adds a refreshing acidity that enhances the overall taste of the jelly.
  8. Herbaceous Twist: Infuse the jelly with fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or mint for a burst of herbal aroma and flavor. Herbs can add depth and complexity to the jelly, making it even more versatile for culinary applications.

Feel free to get creative and customize the Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly recipe to suit your taste preferences and culinary experiments. Whether you prefer a fruity, spicy, or herbaceous twist, there are endless possibilities to explore with this versatile jelly recipe.

Conclusion:

With its perfect balance of sweetness and heat, Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite dishes, this homemade jelly adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Give this recipe a try and delight in the deliciousness of homemade preserves that will leave your taste buds tingling for more.

FAQ’s of Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly Recipe : 

1. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh for this recipe?

  • Yes, you can substitute canned pineapple for fresh if fresh is not available. Just be sure to drain the canned pineapple well before using it in the recipe.

2. How spicy is Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly?

  • Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly has a moderate level of spiciness, thanks to the addition of crushed red pepper flakes and Cowboy Candy peppers. However, you can adjust the heat level by varying the amount of peppers you include.

3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

  • While the sugar acts as a preservative and helps achieve the jelly’s desired consistency, you can slightly reduce the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet jelly. However, altering the sugar content may affect the jelly’s shelf life and texture.

4. How long does it take to make Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly?

  • The entire process, from preparation to canning, typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your cooking skills and equipment. However, most of this time is spent waiting for the jelly to boil and set during the canning process.

5. Can I skip the boiling water bath step?

  • While skipping the boiling water bath may seem tempting, it is crucial for properly sealing the jars and ensuring the jelly’s long-term shelf stability. Skipping this step could result in spoilage and a shorter shelf life for your jelly.

6. What can I use if I don’t have Sure-Jel fruit pectin?

  • Sure-Jel fruit pectin is recommended for achieving the desired gel-like consistency in the jelly. However, you can substitute it with other types of pectin, following their specific instructions for usage.

7. How do I know if my jars are properly sealed?

  • You’ll know the jars are properly sealed when the button in the middle of the lid is fully depressed and does not pop back when pressed. Additionally, you may hear a popping sound as the jars cool and create a vacuum seal.

8. Can I use this jelly as a glaze for meat?

  • Absolutely! Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly makes an excellent glaze for grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or even salmon. Simply brush it onto the meat during the last few minutes of cooking for a flavorful finish.

9. How should I store opened jars of Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly?

  • Once opened, store the jars in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and flavor. Properly sealed jars can be stored in the pantry, while opened jars should always be refrigerated.

10. Can I freeze Pineapple-Cowboy Candy Pepper Jelly for long-term storage?

  • While freezing may alter the texture of the jelly slightly, you can freeze it for long-term storage if desired. Transfer the jelly to airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion, and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

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