Also known as the Indian date, tamarind is the fruit pod produced by tall, semi-evergreen tree grown primarily in India. The beans and pulp within the pod are virtually no smell, but is has an extremely sour taste. Tamarind is available in whole pods, a compressed block, paste or concentrates and is most likely to be found in Asian markets.

It is used as the equivalent to lemon juice in Indian cuisine, but is also used extensively in Asian cooking. It is often used to make juices, soups, chutneys, bean dishes and is also one of the ingredients that makes up Worcestershire sauce.

Fresh can be stored at room temperature, but should be used within a few days of purchase. Tamarind concentrate can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several months.