Get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the heart of Mexican confectionery with these irresistible Bolas de Tamarindo! These little spheres of pure delight are more than just a sweet treat – they're a burst of exotic flavor that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico. Imagine a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly sour notes dancing on your palate, creating a taste experience that's both nostalgic and exciting. Whether you're a culinary adventurer or someone looking to impress friends with a unique dessert, these tamarind balls are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup tamarind pulp
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the tamarind pulp by removing any seeds and tough fibers, ensuring you have a smooth, clean pulp.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the tamarind pulp, sugar, water, and salt. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are well incorporated.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Cook the mixture for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until it thickens and becomes a smooth, cohesive paste. The consistency should be similar to a thick jam.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly until it's comfortable to handle, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once cooled, use clean hands to shape the mixture into small round balls, approximately 1-inch in diameter.
- Optional: Roll the tamarind balls in grated coconut for an additional layer of flavor and texture.
- Place the finished balls on a parchment-lined tray and let them cool completely at room temperature.
- Store the tamarind balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips
- Tamarind Quality Matters: Choose fresh, high-quality tamarind pulp for the most authentic and intense flavor.
- Consistency is Key: When cooking the mixture, stir constantly and watch for a jam-like thickness. This ensures your balls will hold together perfectly.
- Cooling Technique: Let the mixture cool just enough to handle comfortably. If it's too hot, it will be difficult to shape; too cool, and it might become too firm.
- Uniform Size: Use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to create evenly sized balls for consistent cooking and presentation.
- Coconut Coating Hack: If using coconut, toast it lightly beforehand to enhance its nutty flavor and add an extra layer of complexity to your tamarind balls.
- Storage Tip: Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain their texture and freshness for up to a week.
- Variation Idea: Experiment with rolling some balls in powdered sugar or chili powder for a fun flavor twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 336kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
