Recipe: Cowboy Candy (candied jalapeno peppers)

COWBOY CANDY

"I bought a jar of these little dandies at a craft fair last year, and have been looking for some in stores without success. So instead I decided to find a recipe and make some. This recipe represents the state of Texas."

1 1/4 cups sliced fresh jalapenos*
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 drop green food coloring (optional)

Slice jalapenos, and place in a small saucepan. Add sugar and 1/4 cup water. Cook over medium heat until boiling.

Reduce temperature to low, and simmer until the liquid has reduced, and the sugar water has become syrup-like (about 15-20 minutes depending on temperature of heat source).

Let cool and place in clean jelly jar. Store in refrigerator.

*These are very hot with the jalapeno seeds, or less so if seeded first. Note of warning: when slicing the jalapeno, I suggest wearing disposable latex gloves. Also, the fumes, while slicing and cooking, are strong (but fabulous)!

SERVING SUGGESTION:
A cowboy candy slice is delicious served with cream cheese on a cracker. For a nice appetizer presentation, place 3 oz block of cream cheese on a plate. Top with 2 tbsp of cowboy candy, and place crackers around the edges of the plate.

Makes 1/2 cup
Adapted from source: Food.com / PanNan on October 11, 2004