Tamarind

Now you will be interested to know that tamarind is the dried fruit of the tamarind tree, native to East Africa. It is sometimes called an Indian date because the tree is grown all over India and the fruit has a sticky appearance. It has a sharp, acidic taste.

To use, soak a small piece in water for 5 minutes or so, until pulpy, then rub through a sieve and use the water. The longer you soak the tamarind the stronger the flavour. If necessary, use double the amount of lemon juice that the recipe specifies for tamarind water.