Tamarind Powder (pronounced TAM-uh-rihnd), Tamarindus indica, is also called tamarind spice, dried tamarind, or tamarin spice. 

Tamarind powder is made from dehydrated and ground tamarind. The flavor is highly concentrated and more intensely sweet and sour than fresh tamarind. While Tamarind is indigenous to tropical Africa, it has been a key ingredient in Indian cooking and has become deeply entrenched in their culture.

Tamarind Powder is popular with seasoning companies, olive oil shops, and spice shops.

Flavor profile

Tamarind Powder has a subtle, tart flavor with fruity undertones. It is not overly bitter or sour.

How To Use

Tamarind is added to Easy Pad Thai, salads, and stir-fries. Blend into the Thai-style hot-and-sour tom yum soup, or swap for vinegar in a standard Hot and Sour Soup. Stir into Mango Chutney to balance the mango’s sweetness. Add to the seasoning mix for Indian Chicken Wings. Rub over pork tenderloin when making Banh Mi, add a fruity twist to long-simmering Adovada pork stew, or stir tamarind into your favorite DIY Dry Rib Rub. 

Tamarind Powder pairs well with grilled, roasted, or stewed meats, rice, raspberry, passionfruit, papaya, mango, green bell pepper, lemongrass, chocolate, ginger, garlic, onion, and tequila.

Tamarind Powder is used in curries, vindaloos, stews, soups, chutneys, vegetables, jams, marinades, hot sauces, salads, pickles, desserts, rice dishes, tropical fruit drinks, and candies.