Tamarind Balls

10 tamarinds shelled

sugar for rolling

pinch of black pepper

1/4 tsp of hot Bajan pepper sauce or 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

Method

Shell tamarinds by using a thong to pull the fruit out of the shell. Tamarinds are kinda dirty on the outside so I do not like to shell and use the same fingers for touching the tamarinds. I found that using a thongs to pull it out is easier.

Scrape the flesh from the fruit.( I did not do this as it is my preference )

Grab a few pieces of tamarind and press in the sugar until a lot of sugar is incorporated into the flesh. Add spices and pepper. Roll into balls with sugared hands and store in an airtight container.  You can put this in the fridge or you can leave it outside. These can be stored in the fridge for many years. Yes I am serious , they do not go bad at all.

Note

On Tamarind Balls:Tamarind balls are eaten by children mainly and some adults who just love tamarind balls. I find if I have upset stomach and I eat a piece of tamarind ball I feel much better. The spicy tamarind balls can be use as an appetizer or you can omit the spices and make regular sweet tamarind balls. The Asian variety is sweet already and you can eat it like that. I never tried making balls with this but feel free to try and tell me what you think.

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