Ingredients
- Tamarind pulp/concentrate: 100g
- Water: 250ml
- Jaggery or brown sugar: 75g
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Red chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cumin powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black salt (optional): a pinch
Per serving
Calories: 200 kcal
Proteins: 1 g
Fats: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Method
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Soak the tamarind pulp or concentrate in water for about 15 minutes. After soaking, squeeze and strain the pulp to obtain a smooth tamarind paste. Discard any fibers or seeds.
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Heat a saucepan over medium heat and add the tamarind paste, jaggery or brown sugar, salt, red chili powder, cumin powder, and black salt (if using). Stir well to combine.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
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Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add more jaggery or brown sugar.
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Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool down to room temperature.
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Transfer the cooled tamarind sauce to a clean glass jar or airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Tamarind sauce is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. It pairs well with appetizers like samosas, pakoras, or spring rolls. It also complements main dishes such as curries, grilled meats or vegetables, and rice dishes.
Tamarind sauce is a tangy and slightly sweet condiment with a rich flavor profile. It combines the natural sourness of tamarind with the sweetness of jaggery or brown sugar, along with subtle hints of spices. The sauce adds a delightful burst of flavor to dishes and enhances their overall taste. Its versatility makes it a beloved condiment in many Asian cuisines.
Facts about the sauce:
- Tamarind sauce is commonly used in Indian, Thai, and Malaysian cuisines.
- Tamarind is a fruit pod that contains a pulp with a distinct sour taste.
- The sauce is often used as a dipping sauce or as an ingredient in marinades, curries, and stir-fries.
- Tamarind sauce is known for its unique balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.
- Tamarind is rich in antioxidants and is a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, iron, and potassium.