Spices

Our mothers would not start cooking without this ingredient. For its sourtasting and apple-sized appearance, asam gelugur provides a balance of natural sweetness to otherwise stocky dishes containing coconut milk. Native to North Sumatra, asam gelugur also gives a tinge of tartness to soups, curries, braises and stews.

Asam gelugur is widely available in most Chinese and regional supermarkets. It comes in plastic bags (13-15 centimeters) and is labelled as asam or dried tamarind slices. Thais are more familiar with the terms som khaek or sommawon, both of which refer to the same ingredient. Stored properly at a cool temperature, the asam can last for up to two years. It contains hydroxicitric acid that promotes weight loss.