All About Tamarind

Elevate your everyday cooking with the addition of tangy tamarind. This trending fruit pod packs a punch with its unique sweet and sour taste and its culinary versatility. Rich in antioxidants and flavor, this must-try ingredient can be used in chutneys, marinades and more.

What is Tamarind?

Native to Asia, Africa and other tropical climates, tamarind is a tropical fruit pod with a tangy-sweet pulp. It’s often used in cooking for its bold flavor, and it’s popularly featured in Indian and Thai dishes like curries. You can use this versatile ingredient to bring warmth and depth to savory dishes, sauces, marinades and even desserts.

What Does Tamarind Taste Like?

Ready to add some tangy tamarind flavor to your favorite dishes? This fruit pod, often sold as a paste, boasts a distinct sweet and sour flavor, often described as tangy and slightly tart, but that only scratches the surface. Like the tropical regions where tamarind grows, tamarind’s flavor is warm and bright. (Picture a date soaked in lime juice and rolled in brown sugar.) Tangy, sweet and warm, tamarind brings depth to spicy and savory dishes and rounds out sweet desserts.

Is Tamarind Good for You?

If you’re a fan of healthy foods packed with flavor, you’ll be happy to know that tamarind is naturally rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium and magnesium can all be found in this powerful pod, helping you feel your best, while aiding in digestion and supporting more restful sleep. Tamarind also contains compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Tamarind is high in fiber as well, helping to curb rising blood sugar levels and support a healthy gut.

Our Favorite Ways to Use Tamarind

Tamarind pulp can often be found as a concentrated paste or pressed into a block. For big, bold flavor, add it to chutneys, marinades and sauces. This Squash Noodle Pad Thai Recipe starts with a rich sauce made from tamarind paste, tamari, chili, garlic and coconut sugar, and pairs perfectly with spiralized veggies, fresh sprouts and tofu for a delicious lunch or light dinner. If you’re looking for a heartier dinner dish, this Grilled Cilantro Mint Chicken with Tamarind Date Chutney is a must-try. Marinated chicken is grilled to tender, golden perfection and topped with a sweet and tangy tamarind chutney.

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