Trinidad Toolum
Discover the irresistible charm of Trinidad Toolum, a beloved Caribbean confection bursting with bold flavors and rich cultural history. Crafted with tangy tamarind pulp, sweet molasses, and aromatic spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this traditional treat blends the sweet, sour, and spicy in perfect harmony. Grated coconut adds a delightful texture, while a slow cooking process transforms the ingredients into a glossy, sticky mixture that's hand-rolled into bite-sized delights. Perfect as a sweet snack or nostalgic gift, these tamarind coconut balls are a unique fusion of tropical flavors that's sure to captivate. Easily prepped in under an hour, Trinidad Toolum is a must-try for lovers of exotic desserts and Caribbean-inspired recipes!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Tamarind pulp
- 1 cup Sugar
- 0.5 cup Grated coconut
- 1 teaspoon Ground ginger
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg
- 0.25 cup Water
- 1 tablespoon Molasses
- 1 teaspoon Oil (for greasing hands)
Instructions
In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the tamarind pulp and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the tamarind softens and dissolves into a thick paste (about 5 minutes).
Add the sugar to the tamarind mixture and stir until it dissolves. Continue to cook until the mixture begins to bubble gently.
Add the grated coconut, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and molasses. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes. The mixture should become thick, sticky, and glossy.
To test if the toolum mixture is ready, place a small drop of it onto a plate. Once it cools, it should firm up and hold its shape.
Remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly until it is safe to handle (about 10 minutes).
Grease your hands lightly with oil, then take small pieces of the mixture and roll them into smooth, bite-sized balls (about the size of a cherry).
Place the finished toolum balls onto a greased tray or parchment paper to set completely. Allow them to cool and firm up fully at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Serve the toolum as a sweet, tangy treat—or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
143 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 2.2 g | 3% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.6 g | 8% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 8 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 31.9 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.2 g | ||
| Protein | 0.7 g | 1% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 21 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 0.8 mg | 4% | |
| Potassium | 174 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
