What to do with leftover tamarind paste

Tamarind paste is very sour and citrusy with hints of smoke and caramel, which make for a complex flavour profile used for both sweet and savoury dishes throughout the world.

It’s also a key ingredient in Worcestershire sauce, contributing to its distinct tang. See below for a fabulous selection of recipes to use up that leftover pot.

Recipes with tamarind paste

Indian

Middle Eastern

Asian

Inspired dishes

How to use up leftover tamarind paste

  • Whiskey sour
    Shake 50ml bourbon, the juice of ½ lime, ½ tbsp tamarind paste and 25ml sugar syrup with ice, then pour into a chilled glass.
  • Barbecue sauce with a kick
    Using this recipe, add 2 tbsp tamarind paste to the mixture before cooking for extra tanginess.
  • Asian-style dressing
    Mix 3 tbsp tamarind paste with 3 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp fish sauce, 1 tsp soy sauce, the juice of ½ lime and 1 tbsp honey. Use to marinate meat or fish, or drizzle over Asian salads.
  • Date and tamarind cake
    Try adding 2 tbsp tamarind paste to this cake to add a little bit of tang.
  • Carrot cake with a twist
    You’ll be surprised at what 2 tbsp of tamarind paste add to this