The Basics : Cooking Techniques

Tamarind concentrate can be purchased from the grocery already made, or you can easily make it yourself. The concentrate is great because of its flavor and uses, and also, because it will keep in the refrigerator for a months.

This is what the tamarind seed pod looks like.

Begin by shelling the pods with your hands, its very easy to do.

Remove all the shells and add them to a bowl.

After shelling, cover the fruit in boiling water and let it sit for several minutes.

After soaking it is easy to remove the strings and seeds from the fruit.

Tamarind need sugar to counter its strong sour taste.

Add some lime for an extra flavor.

Now just simmer for about 45 minutes and its ready.

 This concentrate is commonly used to make flavored water, all you have to do is strain it, and dilute it with water.  Best of all it keeps in the refrigerator for months and months…

HOMEMADE TAMARIND CONCENTRATE
Makes about 1 cup

INGREDIENTS
1/2 pound dried tamarind with their peel
2 cups boiling water
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

TO PREPARE
Peel tamarinds of the peel, large seeds and strains.  Soak overnight.  Strain in a colander  and press with your hands or a spoon.  Place tamarind juice in a saucepan.  Bring to a boil, add sugar, and simmer over medium heat for 40-45 minutes.  Juice should have thickened considerably.  Squeeze in the fresh lime juice, let it simmer for a couple more minutes and let it cool.

Store in a container with a tight lid in the refrigerator.  It will keep for months.