- 1
Start the tamarind pickle recipe with 30 grams of tamarind, the star of the show.
- 2
If you're working with tamarind blocks, soak them in warm water for 15–20 minutes to soften them up.
- 3
Once pliable, squeeze out the pulp, discard the fibrous bits, and set that tangy gold aside.
- 4
For fresh tamarind pods, peel, de-seed, and extract the pulp in a similar way—it's a little extra work but totally worth it.
- 5
Next, heat a small pan and add 1/2 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
- 6
Why vinegar?
- 7
Because it amps up the tanginess like a pro and brings in a subtle acidic kick.
- 8
Once it's warm, toss in 1/2 tablespoon of mustard seeds (rai) and 1/2 tablespoon of carom seeds (ajwain).
- 9
Let them sizzle and pop—this is where the flavor fireworks start.
- 10
Now, sprinkle in ⅛ tablespoon (about 0.79 grams) of red chili powder for that fiery red hue and a touch of heat.
- 11
Adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds—whether you're going for a gentle zing or a full-on spice fest.
- 12
Stir everything well, letting the chili and vinegar soak up all those aromatic seed flavors.
- 13
Enter 1 teaspoon of fennel powder (saunf).
- 14
This is the mellow sweet note that balances out the tangy and spicy chaos in the best way possible.
- 15
Stir for about 30 seconds so the fennel can work its charm in the oil, releasing that warm, anise-like fragrance.
- 16
Time to bring in the tamarind pulp.
- 17
Add it to the pan and mix like your life depends on it.
- 18
Watch as the pulp absorbs the spiced oil, turning into a luscious, glossy pickle base.
- 19
Cook this mixture on low heat for 5–7 minutes—slow and steady wins the flavor race.
- 20
Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the pan (and to sneak a taste, obviously).
- 21
Once it's cooked to perfection, taste and tweak.
- 22
Need more salt?
- 23
Add it.
- 24
Craving extra spice?
- 25
Sprinkle in some chili powder.
- 26
If you're feeling fancy, throw in a touch of jaggery for a sweet-tangy twist—it's optional but oh-so-delicious.
- 27
Let your tamarind pickle cool completely before transferring it to an airtight jar.
- 28
For best results, let it sit for a day or two; this resting period allows the flavors to marry into a zesty, spicy harmony.
- 29
Store the tamarind pickle in the fridge, and you've got yourself a tangy treasure that lasts up to two weeks (if you can resist finishing it sooner). Don't forget to share this recipe of tamarind pickle with friends and family.