Caribbean · Snack · Easy
Caribbean Tamarind Balls
- Total
- 30 min
- Prep
- 30 min
- Serves
- 24
- Calories
- 90
Tart tamarind and crunchy sugar make small, chewy candies with a pinch of salt to sharpen their sweet-sour bite.
No stove is needed for Caribbean Tamarind Balls: the fruit pulp binds with sugar into a dense, tangy paste. A final roll through dry sugar leaves a fine crystalline crust around each chewy center.
Buy seedless tamarind pulp that is thick enough to pinch into a ball, rather than pourable concentrate. Work through it with your fingers first to remove any lingering seeds or shell fragments.
Method
Break the tamarind pulp into small pieces in a bowl, removing any remaining seeds or shell fragments. Mash with a sturdy fork until evenly softened.
Work 1 cup granulated sugar and the salt into the pulp with your hands until it holds together as a thick, pliable paste.
Divide into 48 small pieces and roll between your palms. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup sugar on a plate and roll the balls through it to coat; serve two per portion.
Forkue tips
- If the pulp is very sticky, chill it briefly before rolling. Pourable tamarind sauce will not firm up into the same candy.
Storing and reheating
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, with parchment between layers. Bring to room temperature before eating for a softer chew.
Nutrition per serving, estimated
Caribbean Tamarind Balls: FAQ
Can I use tamarind concentrate?
Only if it is a thick, unsweetened pulp. Thin concentrate or prepared tamarind sauce has too much liquid to roll into balls.
Why has the sugar coating dissolved?
Moisture from the pulp can dissolve the outer sugar over time. Roll the candies in a little fresh sugar just before serving if you want the crunch back.
How do I store and reheat Caribbean Tamarind Balls?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, with parchment between layers. Bring to room temperature before eating for a softer chew.
How long does Caribbean Tamarind Balls take?
About 30 min in total: 30 min prep and 0 min cooking.
What do I need to make Caribbean Tamarind Balls?
The key ingredients are tamarind pulp, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Caribbean Tamarind Balls?
If the pulp is very sticky, chill it briefly before rolling. Pourable tamarind sauce will not firm up into the same candy.
