Nothing beats the warmth and joy of Christmas baking in Mexico, where traditional treats evoke the spirit of the season. In Mexican households, it’s not just about the main course but also the sweet delights that make the holiday season truly special. Today, we’re bringing you a delightful recipe for a Mexican Christmas baking classic – Dulces De Tamarindo Tamarind Candies. These tangy and sweet tamarind candies are simple to make and will impress your family and friends with their unique flavor profile.
Dulces De Tamarindo Tamarind Candies
Ingredients:
– 2 cups tamarind pulp
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chili powder (optional for a spicy kick)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing the tamarind pulp. If you’re using whole tamarind pods, remove the outer shells and any seeds. Place the tamarind pulp in a bowl and cover it with hot water. Let it soak for about 30 minutes until the pulp softens.
2. Once the tamarind pulp is soft, use your hands or a spoon to mash it and separate the pulp from the fibrous strands. Strain the tamarind pulp through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining seeds or fibers. You should be left with a smooth tamarind paste.
3. In a saucepan, combine the tamarind paste, granulated sugar, water, and salt. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add the chili powder to the mixture at this stage.
4. Once the tamarind mixture has thickened and reached a jam-like consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Line a baking dish or pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking. Transfer the tamarind mixture to the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Allow the tamarind mixture to cool and set at room temperature for about 2-3 hours or until firm.
7. Once the tamarind candy has set, use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares or desired shapes. Dust the candies lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
8. Your Dulces De Tamarindo Tamarind Candies are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a festive treat or package them in decorative boxes or bags to give as edible gifts to loved ones.
Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet tamarind and spicy chili powder with these homemade tamarind candies that capture the essence of Mexican Christmas baking. Whether you’re creating a special holiday spread or looking for a homemade gift idea, these candies are sure to be a hit. Embrace the flavors of Mexico this holiday season with a batch of these delectable Dulces De Tamarindo Tamarind Candies!
