Cowboy Candy

 4 lbs fresh jalapeno peppers sliced

 1 medium onion diced
 1/2 cup vinegar
 1/2 cup water
 6 cups sugar
 2 tablespoons turmeric
 1 1/2 teaspoons celery seed (optional)
 1/2 teaspoon mustard seed (optional)
 1 tablespoon garlic powder
 1 teaspoon ginger
 4 drops green food coloring (optional)

Instructions
Slice Jalapenos into thin slices and dice the onions. (I suggest wearing rubber gloves
while handling the jalapenos and DO NOT TOUCH YOUR FACE!)
If you are a pansy, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before slicing this
takes most of the heat out, and gives you "cowgirl candy."
Place jalapenos in pan with the water and vinegar.
It doesn't take much vinegar/water, because the peppers will make a LOT of water on
their own. Bring the mixture to a boil then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer until
tender (about 10-20 minutes.) Remove the lid from the pan carefully and do not breathe
fumes. Pour off most of the water and vinegar. Or, you can dip out the peppers with a
slotted spoon, and then pour the water/vinegar down the drain.
Return the peppers back to the original pot.
Slowly add the sugar and spices; bring to soft candy temperature to completely dissolve
the sugar. (This will take some time, and you want to bring the temp up gradually,
stirring only occasionally) Use a candy thermometer.
Place boiling mixture into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Put on caps and
place rings on loosely.
Don't use cold jars they will likely crack when the hot mixture is poured into them. Jars
should be filled while still hot from sterilizing in boiling water.
Tighten the rings, once the jars are completely cooled.
As they cool, you will hear each jar lid make a little "plink" as the lid is pulled down in
toward the mixture. If you don't hear or see this happen it did not seal, and the contents of
that jar will have to be reheated, poured back into the hot jar and resealed - or eaten right
away.
Place sealed jars of Candied Jalapenos on shelf for about 1-2 weeks to 'cure' before
opening and using.
You can eat it sooner, but it just won't be as good