Tamarind Agua Fresca (Agua de Tamarindo/Tamarind Water)
A delicious and refreshing drink that is easy to make!
Servings 8 people
Equipment
- Blender (optional)
Ingredients
- 15-18 Tamarind pods (about 1lb)
- 8 cups Water (divided)
- 1/4-3/4 cup Sugar (white or brown) (to taste)
Instructions
- Remove the tamarind shells and peel away the veins. Discard the veins and shells.
- Place the peeled tamarind fruit in a medium saucepan with 4 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes. (You can also soak the peeled tamarind for 2-3 hours instead of boiling.)
- Remove from the heat and let cool completely.
- Once the tamarind water is cool you can remove the seeds with your hands or pour the contents into a blender and pulse on low for about 3 seconds. The seeds should settle at the bottom of the blender.
- Pour the tamarind pulp and tamarind water through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher or 8-cup container. Try to strain in as much pulp as possible as this holds the flavor.
- Add the remaining 4 cups of water and sugar to taste, stir well and enjoy!
Notes
Optional: Add a splash of lime juice for a little extra freshness to your drink. You can use white or brown sugar, add a little, taste, and then add more until you reach your desired sweetness.