Suggested uses

Basic prep

Storage & handling

Store in cool, dry place.

Ingredients

Tamarind, modified corn starch.

Tamarind, or "Tamarindus indica," is the edible pod of the tamarind tree. While tamarind is native to Africa, its use is most widespread in Asia, particularly in southern India. It is also popular in Australia, Mexico and South America. Currently, South Asia and Mexico are the largest consumers and producers of tamarind.

The tree itself is bushy with medium growth. It lives for a long time and prefers full sun in clay, sandy, loamy and acidic soil types. It is a tropical species and does not do well in frost conditions.

Tamarind is known by many names, with varying differences, especially in South Asia. The English word comes from the Arabic tamr-hind, meaning "date of India." Along with its varied culinary uses, it is valued as a poultice for those suffering fever in Southeast Asia.

The fruit of the tree is in irregular, curved pods measuring three to eight inches long, maturing in the late spring to early summer. The immature pulp is especially sour, lending itself to picking recipes and savory dishes while the ripened fruit is fairly sweet, popping up in juice blends, sorbets and jams.

Tamarind is used in a variety of ways by different cultures. In India, it is used as an ingredient to flavor many foods from snacks to main dishes. In Mexico, tamarind is commonly used in many snacks, candies, beverages and sauces. Many other uses for it exist in a myriad of cultures and countries, from Southeast Asia through the Middle East, as well. It is most commonly seen in the United States as a main ingredient in Worcestershire sauce.

Tamarind powder is a useful representation of the fruit that can be used in almost any application. It can be used to make traditional sauces and chutneys, and can also be used to make seasoning blends, salts and rubs. Tamarind fruit's tart versatile flavor can be used in both savory and sweet dishes and makes it a necessity in kitchens that serve South Asian, Southeast Asian and Mexican food.