There’s nothing more refreshing than a cold glass of jugo de tamarindo on a hot day. This classic Dominican drink, made from fresh tamarind pulp, is tangy-sweet, hydrating, and delicious. Easy to make and far better than store-bought, it’s the perfect natural refreshment for any meal or on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Tamarind pods: The star ingredient gives the juice a rich, tangy flavor.
- Water: Helps extract the tamarind pulp and creates the perfect juice consistency.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the drink and balances the natural tartness of tamarind.
- Ice cubes: Keeps the juice cool and refreshing when served.
Tips & Tricks
- Boil for Maximum Flavor: Simmering the tamarind helps soften the pulp and release its full tangy flavor.
- Strain Thoroughly: Use a fine-mesh sieve to remove any fibers or seeds, ensuring a smooth, pulp-free drink.
- Adjust Sweetness: Start with less sugar and add more as needed to suit your taste. Tamarind is naturally tart, so balance it to your preference.
- Make It Ahead: This juice stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, so you can prepare it in advance for easy serving.
How to Prepare the Tamarind
Peel the tamarind pods, removing the brittle shell and any fibers. Then, boil, soak, or mash the pulp to extract the juice. If you’re using pre-packaged pulp, break it into pieces for quicker dissolving.
Flavor Variations
- Cinnamon-Infused: Add a cinnamon stick while simmering the tamarind for a warm, spiced touch.
- Honey or Agave Sweetened: Swap white sugar for natural sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or coconut sugar.
- Spicy Tamarind: Add a pinch of cayenne or a slice of jalapeño for a subtle heat that pairs well with tamarind’s tangy flavor.
How to Serve Jugo de Tamarindo
- Cocktail Base: Mix with rum, tequila, or vodka for a tropical-inspired cocktail.
- Tamarind Popsicles: Pour the juice into popsicle molds and freeze for a tangy frozen treat.
- Sparkling Tamarind Cooler: Mix with club soda for a fizzy, refreshing drink.
Storing Tamarind Juice
Store jugo de tamarindo in an airtight pitcher or jar in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and transfer to a sealed bag—great for chilling drinks without dilution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use tamarind paste instead of fresh tamarind pods?
Yes. Swap fresh tamarind pods for tamarind paste—start with 3–4 tablespoons and adjust to taste. Since it’s more concentrated, add extra water as needed for balance.
What can I do with leftover tamarind pulp?
Don’t toss it. Use leftover tamarind pulp for sauces, marinades, and chutneys or to add a tangy kick to soups and stews.
If you love refreshing homemade drinks, try more delicious beverages like this creamy Rice Drink, a tropical Passion Fruit Refresher, or a naturally sweet Cantaloupe Juice. Each one is perfect for cooling down and enjoying bold, fruity flavors.
Jugo de Tamarindo
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups peeled tamarind (about 350 grams)
- 5 cups water
- 1/2 – 3/4 cups granulated white sugar
- ice cubes
Instructions
- Start by peeling the tamarind pods to remove the outer shell. If the tamarind has visible fibers, gently pull them off as well.
- In a large pot, combine the peeled tamarind, 3 cups of water, and the sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for 8–10 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Once it's cool enough to handle, use a potato masher (or the back of a spoon) to crush the softened tamarind, helping release all the pulp from the seeds.
- Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl or pitcher. Working in batches, press the mashed tamarind mixture through the sieve to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids once you've squeezed out all the liquid.
- Pour the extracted tamarind juice into a serving jug and stir in the remaining 2 cups of water. Add ice cubes to the pitcher or individual glasses and serve the juice chilled.
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