What Is Tamarind

Tamarind is a fruit that is widely used in Indian Restaurants. It provides a complex sharp and sour flavour that enhances many Indian recipes. The fruit itself comes from the Tamarind tree, which is a hardy tree that thrives in tropical climates. It is not a native species to the Indian Continent, however, as it originates from Africa. It was brought to India so long ago that many people consider it to be a native species. It certainly it used extensively in Indian cooking and is a part of the Indian culture.

It is not something you can easily find in most high street supermarkets so if you are keen to try it, a visit to an Indian deli may be in order. Tamarind comes in two forms for cooking; it doesn't matter which you choose but one may be easier then the other. If you want the easier option then you can buy a tamarind paste, which is a thick gooey substance similar to molasses. It can also be bought in compressed blocks where you tear off the amount you need. This form will need to be soaked in warm water, mixed well and then strained. The water mixture is what is used in cooking, and the pulp that was strained is thrown away. It is commonly used in chutneys and curry dishes and it works incredibly well with lentils, such as chickpeas.

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