7 Ultimate Recipes Guide to Cooking with Tamarind Chutney

When the word "tamarind" or tamarind paste tickles your senses, your taste buds likely tingle with anticipation of its unique sourness. This remarkable fruit plays a starring role in numerous South Indian dishes and finds its way into nearly every North Indian chutney. Some of our favourite foods are complete with their tangy touch. Today, we're about to unveil a culinary journey through India, showcasing dishes that are simply unimaginable without tamarind. These flavours are deeply embedded in every corner of the country and remain unmistakably tied to this sour delight. So, let's embark on a flavorful exploration of India's diverse cuisine, where tamarind reigns supreme.

1. Bitter Gourd Paratha: Delhi's Parathe Wali Gali boasts paratha varieties, but have you ever tried their delectable bitter gourd paratha? It's a local favourite, skillfully crafted with the addition of tamarind. The bitterness of the gourd is minimised by marinating in tamarind water. The stuffing, a blend of onions and spices, is then prepared, infusing the paratha with a delightful aroma and flavour, thanks to the magical touch of tamarind pulp and fennel. It is a must-try for food lovers.

2. Tamarind Rice: If you think South Indian cuisine begins and ends with idli and dosa, you're in for a delightful surprise. Dive into the world of tamarind rice, a beloved South Indian delicacy. This flavorful dish is often accompanied by raita and papad, making it a top choice for busy office-goers. Wondering why? Tamarind rice is a time-saver, offering a satisfying and complete meal on one plate, perfect for those with hectic schedules. Explore the rich tapestry of South Indian flavours beyond the familiar!

3. Sweet Sour Chutney: The sweet and tangy date and tamarind chutney is a breakfast staple and a key ingredient in various chaat dishes. Typically, it's homemade using tamarind, dates, jaggery, and spices blended with coriander, cumin, red chilli, and salt. Some households even enhance the flavour by tempering it with sesame, ginger, and garlic. This versatile imli paste chutney adds flavour to your morning meal and elevates the taste of chaat delights.

4. Amalana: Amalana, a delightful Rajasthani summer drink, is crafted from tamarind pulp with an added kick of spiciness from black pepper, a hint of cardamom, and the savoury touch of black salt. This refreshing beverage is embellished with mint and served chilled. The summer drink of tamarind and spices is a surefire mood-lifter, perfect for a quick pick-me-up wherever and whenever you need a refreshing sip.

5. Hyderabadi Veg Dalcha: Dalcha, a dish that celebrates the art of thorough cooking, involves the complete dissolution of four types of pulses. It justifies its name, as all the lentils are mashed meticulously in this preparation. Alongside the pulses element, like pumpkin, tamarind, garlic, and green chillies, join the party, infusing it with a delightful taste. Dalcha perfectly balances between tanginess and spice, offering a flavour-packed culinary experience.

6. Rasam: Rasam and rice form the quintessential South Indian meal, gracing every household's dining table. Rasam, essentially tamarind water infused with aromatic spices, is a beloved post-meal ritual in the region. Often dubbed the “tamarind soup,” Rasam's sour and spicy profile not only tantalises the taste buds but also aids digestion, making it a cherished culinary tradition in South India.

7. Brinjal and Cabbage Kofta Curry: This unique recipe boasts a delightful contrast between its gravy and koftas, crafted from cabbage and brinjal. The tangy curry, prepared with tamarind water and aromatic dry spices, presents a flavour package. For an added touch of indulgence, drizzle some cream over this dish to elevate its richness and taste, creating a delectable culinary experience.

These seven (7) recipes graced with tamarind or tamarind chutney are a must-try for food lovers or beginners trying food recipes.

Health Benefits of Tamarind Paste

Imli chutney by Surya Masale is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that offers culinary delights and health benefits. This concentrated paste is from the pulp of the tamarind fruit, which is native to tropical regions. Tamarind chutney is a common ingredient in various cuisines, from South Asian curries to Mexican salsas.

Indian tamarind chutney has its unique sweet and tangy flavour and is also known for its nutritional value. It is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and iron. Tamarind paste provides antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals and promote overall health.

In the culinary world, imli paste is known for its ability to add depth and complexity to dishes. Its tartness enhances the flavours of savoury dishes, while its natural sweetness balances spicy or sour flavours. Tamarind is an ingredient in classic dishes like Pad Thai, Worcestershire sauce, and various Indian curries and chutneys.

Moreover, tamarind paste's acidity makes it a natural meat tenderiser and is used for marinating meats or as a base for savoury sauces and gravies. It's also a common component in tamarind candy and drinks.

Conclusion: 

In summary, tamarind pulp is more than just a culinary delight; it's a nutritious and versatile ingredient that has made its mark in kitchens of the world, enhancing the taste and nutritional value of a wide range of dishes. Whether used in traditional recipes or innovative creations, imli ki chatni is a valuable and beloved ingredient in global cuisine.

You can buy tamarind paste online from our Surya masale's host of culinary paste. Our tamarind paste is known for its taste, tanginess, and premium quality. You can buy it and get it delivered to your doorstep.