Authentic Mexican Tamarind Candy

Name: Authentic Mexican Tamarind Candy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 20 candies
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 250 g tamarind pods (peeled and deseeded); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp chili powder (optional)

45 min 20 candies Medium

All Recipes

Sweet, tangy, and spicy Mexican tamarind candy made with tamarind pulp, sugar, and chili powder for an irresistible treat.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Mexican tamarind candy, or 'dulces de tamarindo,' is a beloved treat in Mexican cuisine. Its unique combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours makes it a favourite among both children and adults. Made from tamarind pulp, sugar, and chili powder, this candy offers a delightful burst of flavours in every bite. Our version maintains the traditional taste while being easy to make at home. Perfect for those who love bold flavours, this recipe is a great way to introduce a taste of Mexico into your kitchen.

Instructions

Prepare tamarind pulp

Soak the tamarind pods in warm water for 10 minutes to soften. Peel and remove the seeds, collecting the pulp.

Pro tip: Use warm water to ease the peeling process.

Cook tamarind mixture

Combine tamarind pulp, sugar, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Pro tip: The mixture should be thick enough to stick to a spoon.

Add spice

Remove from heat and stir in the chili powder. Mix well to incorporate the spice evenly.

Pro tip: Adjust the chili powder according to your spice tolerance.

Cool the mixture

Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes until it is safe to handle.

Shape the candies

Roll small portions of the cooled mixture into balls or desired shapes.

Pro tip: Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking.

Coat the candies

Mix the coating sugar and optional chili powder in a bowl. Roll each candy in the mixture until fully coated.

Pro tip: For a milder taste, skip the chili in the coating.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh tamarind pods for the best flavour.
Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference.
Store candies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican tamarind candy?

Mexican tamarind candy is a sweet, tangy, and spicy treat made from tamarind pulp, sugar, and chili powder.

How many calories are in Mexican tamarind candy?

Each candy contains approximately 50 calories.

Can I make tamarind candy without chili powder?

Yes, you can omit the chili powder for a purely sweet and tangy candy.

How should I store Mexican tamarind candy?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

What can I pair with tamarind candy?

Tamarind candy pairs well with beverages like agua fresca or horchata.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tamarind candies as a sweet treat at parties or enjoy them as a personal snack whenever you're craving something different. They pair wonderfully with a cold beverage like agua fresca or horchata. To store them, keep the candies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they'll stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you're planning to make them ahead, prepare the tamarind mixture and refrigerate until ready to shape and coat.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

Protein

Fat

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