Drinks
Tamr Hindi (Tamarind Cooler)
Ingredients
- - 150 g (5 oz) tamarind pulp (block or paste)
- - 1 litre (4 cups) warm water, divided
- - 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar, or to taste
- - 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- - Ice cubes, for serving
- - Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Method
- Soak the tamarind pulp in half the warm water for 20-30 minutes, mashing occasionally to help it break down.
- Push the mixture through a fine sieve into a jug, pressing well with the back of a spoon to extract as much tamarind liquid as possible, discarding the seeds and fibres.
- Stir in the remaining water, sugar and cardamom until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness with a little more sugar or water as needed.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, then serve over ice, garnished with fresh mint if desired.
Introduction: This tangy-sweet chilled tamarind drink is a popular Ramadan refreshment across Bahrain, its sharp fruitiness cutting through rich iftar spreads.
Cultural Background: This tangy-sweet chilled tamarind drink is a popular Ramadan refreshment across Bahrain, its sharp fruitiness cutting through rich iftar spreads. Vendors have long sold it from large decorated urns during the holy month, though it is enjoyed year-round as well.
Tips: – Press firmly through the sieve to extract the maximum flavour from the tamarind pulp. – Chilling the drink well before serving enhances its refreshing quality.
Variations: – A squeeze of fresh lime adds an extra layer of tartness. – A pinch of ground ginger gives a warmer, spiced variation.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Naturally vegan as written.
Storage: Refrigerate in a sealed jug or bottle for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Served cold; no reheating required.
Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 90 kcal, 0.5 g protein, 22 g carbohydrates, 0 g fat, 1 g fibre.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use tamarind concentrate instead of pulp? A: Yes, use about 2-3 tablespoons of concentrate diluted with water, adjusting sugar to taste as concentrates vary in strength. Q: Is this drink very sour? A: It has a pleasant tangy-sweet balance; adjust the sugar to make it more or less tart to your preference.
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