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Warning: these sweet and spicy Candied Jalapenos are super addictive! mexicanplease.com
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5 from 5 votes

Candied Jalapenos

Warning: these sweet and spicy Candied Jalapenos are super addictive!   (Note:  instructions not designed for long term canning.)
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 24
Calories: 139kcal
Author: Mexican Please

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs. jalapenos (approx. 15-20 jalapenos)
  • 1/8 small onion (or 2-3 tablespoons worth)
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • pinch of cumin
  • pinch of Mexican oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4-5 black peppercorns
  • 4 cups sugar

Instructions

  • Give the jalapenos a good rinse and then cut them into 1/4 inch slices, discarding the stems.
  • Roughly chop the peeled garlic clove and a few tablespoons worth of onion.
  • Add 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup water, and 4 cups white sugar to a saucepan.  Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for a few minutes. 
  • Saute the onion and garlic in a glug of oil over medium heat using a skillet large enough to hold the jalapenos.  Once the onion has softened, add the spices and salt:  pinch of cumin, pinch of Mexican oregano, black peppers, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.  If using seeds and peppercorns I usually give them a quick crush in the molcajete but this is optional. 
  • Cook the spices for a moment and then add the sliced jalapenos and the vinegar mixture.  Bring to a boil, then turn down the heat and let the jalapenos simmer for a couple minutes.  
  • Add the mixture to a quart-sized Mason jar (or two pint-sized jars).  I usually use a slotted spoon or ladle to add the jalapenos first, and then pour the brine on top of them.  Partially cover and let sit on the counter for a few minutes to cool down. 
  • Once cooled you can cap the jar and store it in the fridge.  They'll have most of their flavor the next day, but may continue to sweeten up over the coming days.  They'll keep for up to a month in the fridge. 

Notes

Kosher, sea or pickling salts are the most common salts used for pickling vegetables.  Iodized salt isn't recommended as sometimes additives will affect the brine.
Glass containers seem to be the best choice for storage of this vinegar based brine.  Metallic containers not recommended. 
It's also best practice to use a non-reactive pan when heating up the vinegar. 
Always use caution when handling hot chiles -- here are some tips on handling hot chili peppers. 

Nutrition

Calories: 139kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Sodium: 50mg | Potassium: 70mg | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 305IU | Vitamin C: 33.7mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.1mg