St. Kitts Tamarind Balls
A classic Caribbean sweet and tangy treat made from tamarind pulp and sugar, rolled into bite-sized balls. They offer a delightful balance of sweet and sour flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 450 g Tamarind pulp(shelled and seeded)
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 1 cup Granulated white sugar(for dusting and rolling)
- 1 tablespoon Salt(optional, to adjust taste)
- as needed Water(to moisten if necessary)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the tamarind pulp and brown sugar. Knead the mixture together, separating any remaining seeds. If the mixture is too dry, sprinkle in a little water to moisten it. Adjust sweetness with more brown sugar if the tamarind is very sour.
- 2
If using, add the salt and mix well to combine.
- 3
Take small portions of the tamarind mixture and roll them between your hands to form balls, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
- 4
Pour the granulated white sugar onto a flat plate or shallow dish. Roll each tamarind ball in the white sugar until well coated.
- 5
Store the tamarind balls in an airtight container in a cool place or the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed immediately or allowed to set for a firmer texture.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The sourness of tamarind can vary, so taste the mixture and adjust the sugar accordingly.
- ✓For a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tiny bit of grated ginger can be added to the tamarind mixture.
- ✓Ensure all seeds are removed from the tamarind pulp for a smoother texture.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include a small amount of flour (about 3 tablespoons) to help bind the mixture.
- Experiment with adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.