Forktionary
Condiment & Sauce | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Tamarind Paste

Tamarindus indica Allergen-Free
Tamarind Paste

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Fabaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Southeast Asian|South Asian|Latin American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Tamarind fruit

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A concentrated pulp made from the fruit of the tamarind tree, known for its distinctly sour and fruity flavor profile.

Sensory Profile

TasteSour, Sweet, Fruity
TextureThick, Viscous, Sticky
AromaFruity, Tart, Earthy
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 15g (1 tbsp)
Calories239 kcal
Total Fat0.6g
Saturated Fat0.2g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein2.8g
Total Carbohydrate62.5g
Dietary Fiber5.1g
Total Sugars38.6g
Calcium74mg
Iron2.8mg
Potassium628mg

Chef’s Secret

For a smoother paste, always dilute tamarind paste with a small amount of warm water and strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any residual fibers.

Substitutions

Best Match

Lime Juice + Brown Sugar

1:1 paste (3:1 juice:sugar)

Mimics the sour and slightly sweet profile, ideal for quick sauces.

Rice Vinegar + Sugar

1:1 paste (3:1 vinegar:sugar)

Offers a mild tang suitable for marinades when fruitiness isn't critical.

Ketchup

1:1 (smaller amount)

Provides umami, sweetness, and acidity for some savory applications, but flavor is distinct.

Fruit Chutney

1:1

Can add a complex sweet-sour profile, especially in curries, but may introduce spices.

Buying Guide

Check for "seedless" and "fiber-free" varieties for easier use.

Flavor Pairings

Fish chicken pork curries stir-fries chutneys pad Thai lentils.

Recipes Using Tamarind Paste

Aloo Channa Chaat Tangy Potato Chickpea Snack image 118
Snacks 30 Minutes Or Less Dietary Vegetarian

Aloo Channa Chaat Tangy Potato Chickpea Snack

Spice up your life with this vibrant Aloo Channa Chaat! This irresistible Indian snack boasts a delightful sweet and tangy flavor profile, perfectly balancing the creamy chickpeas and tender potatoes. Made with a zesty tamarind chutney (easily found in Indian grocery stores), crunchy raw onions (or shallots for a milder flavor), and fresh cilantro, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. New to tamarind? Start with less and adjust to your taste – the key is to experiment and find your perfect balance! This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.

See Complete Recipe