Spicy Mock Apple Rings

Spicy Mock Apple Rings
  • PREP TIME
    1 hrs 30 mins
  • COOK TIME
    2 hrs 45 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    66 hrs 15 mins
  • SERVING
    50 People
  • VIEWS
    30

Transform humble zucchini into a dazzling treat with this surprisingly delicious recipe! Infused with the warmth of cinnamon and a spicy kick, these rings offer a delightful twist on a classic candied apple, perfect for impressing friends and family.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    23 g
  • Fiber
    0 g
  • Protein
    0 g
  • Sodium
    10 mg
  • Sugar
    22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Day 1: Prepare the Zucchini: Place zucchini slices in a large glass jar or crock. In a separate nonreactive bowl, combine 2 cups water with pickling lime, ensuring it's well mixed. Pour the lime solution over the zucchini, ensuring complete submersion. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit for 24 hours. (Time: 24 hours)

02

Step

Day 2: Rinse and Soak: Drain zucchini in a colander and rinse thoroughly under running water to eliminate any remaining lime. Clean the glass jar and return the zucchini. Cover with fresh, cool water and let soak for 2-3 hours. (Time: 2-3 hours)

03

Step

Day 2 (cont.): Simmer in Vinegar: Drain and rinse the zucchini again. Transfer to a large pot and combine with 1 cup vinegar, red food coloring, and alum. Add enough water to cover the zucchini and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours. Drain and discard the liquid, then return the zucchini to the glass jar. (Time: 2 hours)

04

Step

Day 2 (cont.): Infuse with Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, 3 cups water, remaining 1 cup vinegar, cinnamon sticks, and Red Hot candies. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar and candies are fully dissolved. Pour the syrup over the zucchini, cover, and let stand for 24 hours. (Time: 24 hours)

05

Step

Day 3: Sterilize Jars and Boil Syrup: Strain the zucchini, reserving the syrup. In a small saucepan, bring the syrup to a rolling boil over medium heat. Meanwhile, sterilize 8 (1/2-pint) canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for at least 5 minutes. (Time: 5 minutes)

06

Step

Day 3 (cont.): Pack and Seal: Pack the zucchini slices into the hot, sterilized jars, then pour in the hot syrup, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Use a clean knife or thin spatula to release any trapped air bubbles. Wipe the jar rims with a moist paper towel to remove any residue. Top with the lids and screw the rings on tightly. (Time: 20 minutes)

07

Step

Day 3 (cont.): Water Bath Process: Place a rack at the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil and carefully lower the jars into the boiling water, ensuring they are 2 inches apart. Add more boiling water, if needed, to cover the jars by at least 1 inch. Return to a rolling boil, cover, and process for 20 minutes. (Time: 20 minutes)

08

Step

Day 4: Cool and Check Seals: Remove the jars from the stockpot and place them several inches apart on a cloth-covered or wood surface to cool completely (12-24 hours). Once cooled, press the center of each lid to confirm it doesn't move up or down, indicating a proper seal. Remove the rings and store in a cool, dark place. (Time: 12-24 hours)

For a deeper red color, add more red food coloring, but be mindful of potential flavor changes.
Ensure the zucchini slices are completely submerged in the pickling lime solution to guarantee even treatment.
If you don't have canning jars, you can store the finished rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Adella Buckridge

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 5.0/ 5 ( 10 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (7)
  • Harrison Ondricka

    Make sure to rinse the lime really well, or it will taste bitter. Other than that, a great recipe!

  • Leonel Wilderman

    I reduced the sugar a bit, and they were still delicious. Thanks for sharing this unique recipe!

  • Agustina Kulas

    I added a pinch of ginger to the syrup for an extra kick. It was a great addition!

  • Aiyana Kirlin

    These are surprisingly good! My kids love them, and I feel good about them eating more vegetables.

  • Daniela Hayesberge

    The recipe was easy to follow, and the rings came out perfectly. I used cucumbers, and they were a hit at our family gathering.

  • Neal Hagenes

    The red food coloring is optional, but it does make them look more appealing.

  • Tierra Senger

    I was skeptical about the zucchini, but the spices and syrup make it taste just like candied apples!

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