Tamarind Balls

Name: Tamarind Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 20 servings
Cuisine: Grenadian
Ingredients: 500g tamarind pulp, seeds removed; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper or hot pepper (optional); Extra sugar for rolling

Tamarind Balls (TAM-ah-rind BALLS)

Spicy Tamarind Candy

⏱ Prep Time 20 min

📈 Difficulty Easy

👥 Servings

Tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy tamarind pulp rolled into balls with sugar and a touch of pepper, an addictive Grenadian street snack.

Nutrition & Info

Carbs 12.0g

Dietary

vegetarian vegan dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

mixing bowl clean hands

Presentation Guide

Vessel: small paper bag or bowl

Garnishes: sugar coating

Accompaniments: other Grenadian sweets

Ingredients

500g tamarind pulp, seeds removed
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper or hot pepper (optional)
Extra sugar for rolling

Instructions

1
Remove all seeds and fibres from the tamarind pulp, leaving only the soft, sticky flesh.
2
Combine tamarind pulp with sugar, salt, and pepper. Knead with your hands until well mixed.
3
Pinch off small portions and roll into balls about two centimetres in diameter.
4
Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat evenly.
5
Place on parchment paper and let sit at room temperature for an hour to firm slightly.
6
Store in an airtight container. They keep for weeks at room temperature.

💡

Did You Know?

Tamarind balls are so popular in Grenada that school children trade them like currency during recess.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

mixing bowl
clean hands

Garnishing

sugar coating

Accompaniments

other Grenadian sweets

The Story Behind Tamarind Balls

Tamarind balls represent the intersection of East Indian and African culinary traditions in the Caribbean. The tamarind tree, originally from Africa but widely cultivated in India, was brought to Grenada where both communities had traditions of using the sour fruit. The technique of combining tamarind with sugar into portable sweets made them perfect market and street snacks. Today they remain one of the most affordable and beloved treats across the Spice Isle.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed snack anytime 📜 Origins: East Indian and African tradition

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