Patia Tamarind Sauce for Curry
This authentic sweet and sour tamarind sauce brings the perfect balance of flavors to any dish. With its rich, complex taste and silky texture, this versatile condiment transforms ordinary meals into restaurant-quality experiences using just simple pantry ingredients.
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Servings: 6
Calories: 25kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- Tamarind pulp or concentrate equivalent to 1/2–1 tbsp paste
- 2 tbsp sugar or to taste
- 1/4 tsp chili powder optional, for heat
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger or use ginger paste
- Pinch of garlic powder optional
- 1 tsp lemon juice optional
- Water as needed for soaking and consistency
Instructions
- Soak tamarind in hot water for 30 minutes until softened.
- Mash the soaked tamarind thoroughly with a spoon or fork.
- Strain the mixture through a fine sieve, pressing the pulp to extract maximum puree. Discard the fibrous remains.
- In a small saucepan, combine the tamarind puree, sugar, chili powder, ground ginger, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
- Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously.
- Simmer for 7-10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add water gradually to achieve desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or sourness as needed.
- Remove from heat and let cool before serving or storing.
Notes
Adjust sweetness by adding more sugar; increase tartness with additional tamarind puree
For a milder sauce, omit chili powder completely or reduce the amount
Fresh ginger paste can be substituted for ground ginger for a more pronounced flavor
The sauce can be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks
For smoother consistency, strain the final sauce through a fine mesh sieve
Make ahead for better flavor development - tastes even better the next day
If sauce becomes too thick when stored, thin with a little warm water before serving
Nutrition
Serving: 30g | Calories: 25kcal | Carbohydrates: 6.5g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 85mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 6g