Indulge in the delicious flavors of Thai cuisine with the vibrant and tangy Tamarind Dressing. This dressing, crafted from a blend of lime juice, soy sauce, tamarind puree, and red chili paste, unlocks a world of culinary possibilities.

Health benefits of tamarind

Let's take a moment to appreciate the health benefits that tamarind brings to the table. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, tamarind offers a host of advantages for your well-being:

Rich in Antioxidants: Tamarind contains potent antioxidants such as vitamin C, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which help combat free radicals and protect your cells from damage.
Digestive Aid: Tamarind is known for its digestive properties, thanks to the presence of dietary fiber and natural laxatives. It can help alleviate constipation, promote regular bowel movements, and improve overall digestion.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory compounds found in tamarind, such as polyphenols, can help reduce inflammation in the body and provide relief from conditions like arthritis and joint pain.
Healthy Heart: Tamarind contains potassium, a mineral known to help lower blood pressure levels. It also has dietary fiber that aids in reducing bad cholesterol levels, thus supporting heart health.
Immune Booster: With its high vitamin C content, tamarind can strengthen your immune system, helping you fight off infections and illnesses.

How to make tamarind puree?

The best way to buy tamarind is in a block of dried pulp with the seeds. All the bottles of tamarind puree contain lots of sugar and preservatives.

To make fresh tamarind puree

Cut a piece of the tamarind pulp and put it in a bowl
Pour over just enough boiling water to cover (not too much)
Mash well with a fork
Allow to sit and infuse for 10 minutes to get as much pulp from the seeds
Strain the tamarind-infused water and use this in your recipes.

How to make tamarind dressing

Ingredients

40 ml Lime juice
60 ml Soy sauce
40 ml Tamarind puree
20 g Red chili paste (to taste)

Instructions

Thinly shave Palm sugar and add to a small mixing bowl.
Add Soy sauce, Lime juice, and Tamarind puree
Whisk until the palm sugar dissolves.
Add Red chili paste to taste and stir well to combine.
Transfer to a bowl and store in the fridge for up to five days.
Whisk well before serving.

fresh-tamarind-pulp-for-making-tamarind-dressing

Ways to incorporate tamarind dressing into recipes

Let's explore the versatility of this Thai recipe and how it can elevate different dishes

Salad Dressing: Drizzle the tamarind dressing over a fresh green salad, adding a burst of tanginess and complexity to your greens.
Marinade: Use the tamarind dressing as a marinade for vegetables, tempeh, or tofu, allowing the flavors to infuse and create a mouthwatering dish.
Stir-Fries: Add a few tablespoons of tamarind dressing to your stir-fried vegetables or protein of choice, giving your dish an authentic Thai touch.
Dipping Sauce: Serve the tamarind dressing as a dipping sauce alongside spring rolls, skewers, or dumplings for an extra kick of flavor.

Conclusion

With its abundance of nutrients and unique flavor profile, tamarind offers a wide range of health benefits. This versatile Thai recipe is sure to elevate your dishes to new heights. Add a touch of Thai magic to your meals while enjoying its numerous health advantages.