Tamarind
Tamarind pulp or paste, sour-sweet fruit.
Regions used
West Africa, East Africa, North Africa
Flavour profile
Sour-sweet, deep, fruity
Availability
Asian and African grocers (pulp, paste or dried blocks); supermarkets.
Potential Allergens
Important guidance for safe cooking and eating.
Allergen information is provided as general guidance only. Always check product labels and packaging, as ingredients and manufacturing processes may vary.
Common uses
Used in drinks, sauces, marinades and chutneys across West and East Africa.
Substitutes
Tamarind paste (store-bought)
Closest MatchVery High
Use: Use the same amount
The same ingredient in paste form; widely available in Asian grocers.
Lime juice + brown sugar
Good AlternativeMedium
Use: Use lime juice with a little brown sugar
Adjustments: Adjust sourness to taste
Approximates the sour-sweet balance, but tamarind is deeper and less sharp.
⚠ Flavour will differ from the traditional dish