Tamarind Candy (Imli Goli)

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Leena Kohli (@leenakohli)
5.0
From 4 ratings

When I was a child, I used to watch my grandmother make Imli Goli, also known as tamarind candy. I loved these candies so much; they were so addictive that I couldn't stop eating them once I started. So, I learned to make them from her, and it was so...

Prep Time
1hr 0min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
1hr 20min
Tamarind Candy (Imli Goli) recipe

Ingredients

20 Servings
(1 serving = 1 piece)
  • 400g
    Seedless Tamarind
  • 500g
    Jaggery
  • 1/2cup
    Powdered Sugar
  • 1tbsp
    Red Chilli Powder
  • 1tbsp
    Black Salt
  • 1tbsp
    Roasted Cumin Powder

How to make Tamarind Candy (Imli Goli)

  1. Soak the tamarind in warm water for an hour until it becomes soft. Mash with your hands and strain the pulp into a bowl.

    Step 1.1: Soak the tamarind in warm water for an hour until it becomes soft
    Step 1.2: Soak the tamarind in warm water for an hour until it becomes soft
  2. Melt the jaggery over low heat in a deep pan or karahi, stirring continuously.

    Step 1.1: Melt the jaggery over low heat in a deep pan or karahi, stirring continuously
  3. Add the red chilli powder, black salt and roasted cumin powder to the melted jaggery and cook for a minute.

    Step 1.1: Add the red chilli powder, black salt and roasted cumin powder to the melted jaggery and cook for a minute
    Step 1.2: Add the red chilli powder, black salt and roasted cumin powder to the melted jaggery and cook for a minute
  4. Stir in the tamarind pulp and mix well. Keep stirring to prevent the jaggery from sticking to the bottom. Cook until the mixture thickens and does not drip off the ladle.

    Step 1.1: Stir in the tamarind pulp and mix well
  5. Transfer the mixture to a plate and let it cool to room temperature.

    Step 1.1: Transfer the mixture to a plate and let it cool to room temperature
    Step 1.2: Transfer the mixture to a plate and let it cool to room temperature
  6. Lightly grease your fingers and palm with oil, and form the mixture into small balls. Roll or coat the balls evenly in powdered sugar.

    Step 1.1: Lightly grease your fingers and palm with oil, and form the mixture into small balls
  7. Store the imli goli/candies in an airtight container or glass jar.

Tips & Tricks

  1. For extended shelf life, keep the imli goli/candies refrigerated.

FAQS

  1. How do I make Imli Goli from scratch?

    To make Imli Goli, soak 400 g of seedless tamarind in warm water for an hour until soft. Mash and strain the pulp. Melt 500 g of jaggery in a pan over low heat, then add 1 tbsp each of red chilli powder, black salt, and roasted cumin powder. Stir in the tamarind pulp and cook until thick. Once cooled, form into small balls and roll in powdered sugar.

  2. Is Imli Goli suitable for a vegan diet?

    Yes, Imli Goli is completely vegan as it is made with tamarind pulp, jaggery, and spices, without any animal products. It's a great option for those following a plant-based diet.

  3. What are some good substitutions for jaggery in Imli Goli?

    If you don't have jaggery, you can substitute it with other natural sweeteners like honey or date syrup. However, keep in mind that jaggery provides a unique flavor that is traditional in Imli Goli.

  4. How should I store Imli Goli to keep it fresh?

    Store Imli Goli in an airtight container at room temperature. When stored properly, it can last for several weeks, making it a convenient treat to have on hand.

  5. What can I pair with Imli Goli for a complete snack experience?

    Imli Goli pairs well with a cup of chai or can be enjoyed alongside savory snacks like roasted nuts or samosas. It's also a delightful appetizer before meals to stimulate the appetite.

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Leena Kohli

(@leenakohli)

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