Step 1

Remove the shells and as many veins as you can from the tamarind pods. Break them into pieces and add them to a bowl with hot water. Optional: Using a small knife, cut the seeds out of the pods before breaking them up.

Step 2

Add in the sugar and incorporate with the pods using your hands for about 10 minutes (be warned it's very sticky, so gloves are handy).

Step 3

Note: If the mix is too mushy or tangy, add in sugar a little at a time until it reaches your desired taste and a consistency that’s able to be rolled.

Step 4

Add any coatings you’ll be using to shallow bowls. Using your hands, roll a portion of the tamarind mixture until smooth. Using 2 spoons, coat the ball in either chile-lime seasoning, more granulated sugar, or cacao powder.

Step 5

Continue this process until all of the tamarind balls are formed. Transfer to your fridge for storage. Happy eating!