What exactly is tamarind concentrate and where would I find it?

Silkpurs29
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4 Comments

Panfusine July 10, 2011
if you can, go for the blocks of tamarind pods over the concentrate. The pods, need a bit more prepping, but have a flavor & a hint of sweetness (especially those from Thailand as opposed to India) that concentrates lack. its almost like substituting citric acid crystals in place of fresh lime or lemon juice!

If using tamarind paste, try either the joy or lakshmi brands that are listed in Amanda's amazon link. The Tamicon is extremely tart & flavorless except for the puckering sour taste tends to give an unappetizing, hideous blackish brown color to the dish. if you have access to any Indian grocery stores, try looking for tamarind there.
The Tamicon concentrate has its own fabulous purpose.....for shining up tarnished brass!, just add a spoon to a sponge & simply scrub the patina away!
 
nups July 10, 2011
It's used widely in Indian cooking, and you should be able to find it in any Indian or Asian grocery store. You can purchase tamarind as a concentrated paste, or in a solid bar with seeds that requires soaking in hot water.
 
Silkpurs29 July 10, 2011
Amanda, Thanks so much for the links. I just found Food52 tonight and I love it.
 
Amanda H. July 9, 2011
Here's an explanation: http://www.thespicehouse.com/spices/tamarind-concentrate-tamarind-paste

Here's a selection available via Amazon: http://amzn.to/npxudq
 
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