Lifestyle
Everything You Need To Know About Tamarind
2min read
The tropical plant is a key ingredient in a variety of dishes — but what actually is it, and is it good for you? Find out this and more in this handy guide.
What is tamarind?
Tamarind is a fruit grown in tropical climates and comes from the tamarind tree which is native to Africa. Tamarind is grown in little pods filled with pulp, and when they become ripe, the pods form a sour paste-like consistency which is then harvested. It’s used in a range of cuisines, notably in Asian and Caribbean countries.
Is tamarind good for you?
Tamarind is actually a great food rich in nutrients. It is rich in phytonutrients, which are powerful antioxidants and promote a healthy immune system. It is also rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, which decreases LDL cholesterol and can help reduce blood pressure.
Where to buy tamarind
You can find concentrated tamarind, tamarind sauce, and tamarind paste in supermarkets and grocery stores, and if you’re looking for raw tamarind, have a look in your local international grocery shop.
What to make with tamarind
Tomato and tamarind soup
This soup is equal parts sweet, sour, savoury and comforting. It’s super easy to make and the end result is a tomato soup with a delicious twist that makes a tasty lunch or light dinner on colder evenings. We also recommend loading up on lots and lots of croutons.
cover photo image: Flickr
By Toni Olukiran
Toni is one of our lovely Content Marketing Assistants, and when she’s not writing posts about everything from Jamaican cooking to vegan champagne, she’s making a Spotify playlist (she was at 200, at her last count) or playing tennis in the park.
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