Tamarind paste
Description
Tamarind paste is a thick, sticky mass with a dark brown color and an intense, sweet-sour taste with fruity and slightly caramel notes. It is concentrated and aromatic, providing a pleasant acidic accent without sharp bitterness. From a nutritional standpoint, it delivers fiber, natural organic acids (such as tartaric and malic acid), certain amounts of vitamin C, and minerals like potassium and magnesium, as well as antioxidants; moderate consumption may support digestion and provide nutrients characteristic of tropical fruits. In the kitchen, tamarind paste is versatile: it is used in sauces, dressings, curries, marinades, chutneys, soups, and desserts, where it balances sweet and fatty flavors. It should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for several weeks; for longer storage, it is advisable to portion and freeze it. Avoid contamination when scooping and keep it away from direct light and heat sources.