Limited Pantry - Substitute for Hing/Asafoetida and Tamarind Paste?

If you don't have access to hing/asafoetida, would it be suitable to add additional garlic and onion (powder or fresh)? Same for tamarind: is there a suitable fruit (or preserve, condiment) that can be a reasonable substitute?

Twinkle
  • Posted by: Twinkle
  • March 31, 2020
  • 1991 views
  • 4 Comments
Chitra Agrawal's Coconut Dal with Turmeric Rice
Recipe question for: Chitra Agrawal's Coconut Dal with Turmeric Rice

4 Comments

Nancy
Nancy April 1, 2020
Other ideas to replace the acidity and slight sweetness of tamarind-
Amchur (sour mango powder)
Small amount of sugar
Date syrup mixed with lemon juice or vinegar
Pomegranate molasses
 
Twinkle
Twinkle April 1, 2020
Thank you!
 
Brinda A.
Brinda A. March 31, 2020
Hi Twinkle! For the hing, you can feel free to replace it with a bit of extra onions or onion powder, or leave it out—it is a flavor enhancer but by no means necessary! I often cook dal without it and it still tastes good. And for the tamarind, lime or lemon juice works well in my experience.

Hope this helps!
 
Twinkle
Twinkle April 1, 2020
Thank you so much! I usually don't like to deviate from a recipe when trying it for the first time but trips to the store aren't so common these days.
 
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