Tamarind juice recipe, and how to pair it with foods

Tamarind juice is popular, especially in the drier parts of Kenya.

Unfortunately, not many people would prepare a decent glass of tamarind juice.

Here is a simple recipe.

You’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Tamarind pods or tamarind concentrate or paste
2. Water
3. Sugar or sweetener (optional)
4. Ice cubes (optional)

Here’s a simple recipe to make tamarind juice:

If using tamarind pods, remove the outer shell and separate the pulp from the seeds by soaking them in warm water for 15-20 minutes. Once softened, use your hands to extract the pulp. If using tamarind concentrate or paste, skip this step.

In a blender or food processor, blend the tamarind pulp (or concentrate) with water until smooth. Start with a ratio of 1 part tamarind pulp or concentrate to 3 parts water, and adjust based on your preference for sweetness and tartness.

If desired, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp fibers. This step is optional, as some people enjoy the texture of the pulp in their juice.

Add sugar or any other sweetener of your preference to taste, stirring until dissolved. Keep in mind that the natural tartness of tamarind might not require additional sweeteners. Adjust according to your preference.

Serve the tamarind juice chilled or over ice cubes. You can garnish with mint leaves or a slice of lemon, if desired.

Now, regarding pairing tamarind juice with different foods, here are a few ideas:

Spicy or Savory Dishes: Tamarind juice complements spicy or savory foods well. It offers a tangy and refreshing contrast to the heat. It pairs nicely with dishes like curries, spicy grilled meats, or stir-fried vegetables.

Asian Cuisine: Tamarind juice is commonly used in Asian cuisine. It goes well with dishes like pad Thai, satay, or fried rice. It adds a sour and slightly sweet flavor that balances other bold tastes.

Tamarind juice makes an excellent dipping sauce for seafood. The tangy flavor of tamarind juice can also be used to complement shrimp, fish, or calamari.

Salads: Tamarind juice can be used as a base for salad dressings, providing a distinctive sweet and sour taste. Try it in a roasted vegetable salad or a fruit salad with tropical flavors.

Sweet Treats: Tamarind juice can be used to create desserts like sorbets, popsicles, or even as an ingredient in cocktails, giving them a unique twist.

Remember that the versatility of tamarind juice allows it to be paired with a wide range of dishes, both savory and sweet. Feel free to experiment and tailor the flavor combinations to your preferences.