Pineapple Cowboy Candy
If you’re looking for a sweet and spicy treat that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than Pineapple Cowboy Candy. This delicious recipe combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple with a kick of red pepper flakes, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of flavors – sweet, spicy, and tangy – will tantalize your taste buds.
- Quick and easy prep time makes it a convenient dish for any gathering.
- Perfect for meal prep – make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Ingredient Notes:
- Medium fresh pineapple: Adds a juicy and tropical flavor to the dish.
- Granulated sugar: Provides the sweetness needed to balance out the heat.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds tanginess and helps to preserve the pineapple.
- Red pepper flakes: Bring the heat – adjust to your preferred spice level.
- Ground ginger: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- Fresh mint leaves: Optional, but adds a refreshing touch as a garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine diced pineapple, sugar, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
- Let it cool before serving, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Helpful Tips:
- For a milder version, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Serve over cream cheese for a delicious appetizer.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sugar and spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
Pineapple Cowboy Candy pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, on top of ice cream, or as a topping for tacos.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store, place the cowboy candy in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to retain the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh? Yes, but fresh pineapple will provide the best flavor.
- How spicy is this dish? You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- How long will it last in the refrigerator? Up to a week if stored properly.
- Can I freeze Pineapple Cowboy Candy? It’s not recommended as the texture may change when thawed.
Conclusion:
Try this Pineapple Cowboy Candy recipe for a unique and flavorful twist on a classic treat. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a snack, this dish is sure to be a hit. Share your feedback and enjoy the sweet and spicy goodness!
PrintPineapple Cowboy Candy
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pineapple Cowboy Candy is a sweet and spicy treat made with diced pineapple cooked in a mixture of sugar, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, and ginger. This delightful dish can be served as a side or garnish to add a kick to your favorite meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple: Peel, core, and dice the fresh pineapple.
- Cook the Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine diced pineapple, sugar, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger.
- Simmer: Cook the mixture over low heat until the pineapple is tender and the liquid thickens.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the cowboy candy cool before serving, and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Notes
- You can adjust the spiciness of the cowboy candy by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg