Web exclusive: Agua de Tamarindo

Tamarind Pods are a legume that grow on the Tamarind tree. Inside this pod-like fruit are a number of large seeds and a sticky, tart pulp. Tamarind pods are readily found in bulk at Mexican markets or at organic grocery stores. Do not let the tamarind pods intimidate you from making this recipe. This delicious agua fresca will become an instant crowd favorite!
By / Photography By | June 03, 2016

Ingredients

  • 20 tamarind pods, peeled
  • 5 cups water
  • ¼ cup sugar

Instructions

Carefully inspect the tamarind pods and choose twenty pods that seem mostly intact. Peel the pods.

Bring 5 cups of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Place the peeled tamarind pods in the boiling water and allow to simmer for about ten minutes. Remove from heat and allow the water and pods to cool completely.
 
With your hands, remove the pits from the pulp. Discard pits. Place the pulp and water into a blender and blend until smooth. Strain the mixture into a pitcher, squeezing the pulp through the strainer with a spoon. Add additional water and sugar until the flavor becomes balanced between sour and sweet. Serve over ice.

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Ingredients

  • 20 tamarind pods, peeled
  • 5 cups water
  • ¼ cup sugar
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