Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tamarind Balls are a fantastic balance of sweet, sour, and spicy. They combine the tangy flavor of tamarind with a touch of heat from the hot sauce and a sweetness from the sugar-free sweetener. This dessert is not only delicious but also healthy when eaten in moderation. Tamarind is rich in nutrients like magnesium, potassium, iron, and B vitamins. The recipe is quick, easy, and requires no baking, so it’s perfect for a last-minute treat or a healthy snack.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 1/4 cups sugar-free sweetener
- 1 (7-ounce) package tamarind paste
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce
- Pinch of salt
directions
1. Prepare the Sweetener:
Start by placing 1/4 cup of the sugar-free sweetener onto a shallow plate. This will be used later to roll the tamarind balls.
2. Mix the Tamarind Ball Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the tamarind paste, hot sauce, salt, and 3/4 cup of the sugar-free sweetener. Mix everything together thoroughly with your hands until the mixture is well combined.
3. Shape the Tamarind Balls:
Using your hands, shape the tamarind mixture into a large ball, and then divide it into small bite-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
4. Roll the Balls:
Roll the tamarind balls in the reserved sugar-free sweetener to coat them evenly.
5. Serve:
Arrange the tamarind balls on a plate or cutting board and serve immediately, or store them in an airtight container.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 12 tamarind balls.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like more heat, you can add extra hot sauce or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add a Sweet Twist: Add a few teaspoons of honey or agave nectar if you prefer a slightly sweeter version.
- Add Herbs: For an added freshness, you can incorporate finely chopped mint or cilantro into the mixture.
storage/reheating
Store tamarind balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These balls don’t require refrigeration and can be enjoyed at any time. They’re also easy to transport, making them a great snack for picnics or travel.
FAQs
What do tamarind balls taste like?
Tamarind balls have a delicious combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The tamarind paste gives them a tangy base, while the hot sauce adds heat and the sweetener balances it all out.
Are tamarind balls healthy?
Tamarind balls are healthy when eaten in moderation. Tamarind paste contains many beneficial nutrients such as fiber, potassium, magnesium, and iron. This treat is sugar-free and low in calories, making it a great option for those on a keto or low-carb diet.
Can I adjust the heat in tamarind balls?
Yes, you can adjust the heat by adding more or less hot sauce depending on your preference. If you like it extra spicy, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I make tamarind balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare tamarind balls ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
Where can I find tamarind paste?
Tamarind paste is often available at international grocery stores, particularly in Indian or Southeast Asian sections. You can also find it online.
Conclusion
Tamarind Balls are a fun and flavorful snack that’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a healthy, tangy treat that satisfies your sweet and spicy cravings. Whether you’re new to tamarind or already a fan, this recipe is a great way to enjoy the tropical fruit’s unique flavor. Perfect for any occasion, these tamarind balls are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike!
Tamarind Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 tamarind balls
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
Tamarind Balls are a sweet, sour, and spicy treat made with tamarind paste, sugar-free sweetener, hot sauce, and salt. These bite-sized balls offer a burst of unique flavor, perfect for a quick snack or dessert. They are healthy, easy to make, and require no baking!
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups sugar-free sweetener
1 (7-ounce) package tamarind paste
2 teaspoons hot sauce
Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweetener: Place 1/4 cup of the sugar-free sweetener onto a shallow plate. This will be used later to roll the tamarind balls.
- Mix the Tamarind Ball Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the tamarind paste, hot sauce, salt, and 3/4 cup of the sugar-free sweetener. Mix everything together thoroughly with your hands until the mixture is well combined.
- Shape the Tamarind Balls: Using your hands, shape the tamarind mixture into a large ball, and then divide it into small bite-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
- Roll the Balls: Roll the tamarind balls in the reserved sugar-free sweetener to coat them evenly.
- Serve: Arrange the tamarind balls on a plate or cutting board and serve immediately, or store them in an airtight container.
Notes
Adjust the Spice Level: Add more hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Add a Sweet Twist: Add honey or agave nectar for a sweeter version.
Add Herbs: Incorporate chopped mint or cilantro into the mixture for added freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tamarind ball
- Calories: 25 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: undefined
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
