Agua De Tamarindo (Tamarind Water)

The tamarind tree from India produces a fuzzy, pod-shaped fruit with a sticky, earth-colored pulp that has a tart flavor. When mixed with sugar or chile, the pulp is eaten as a snack, but when combined with sweetened water it becomes one of Mexico's favorite beverages to serve with antojitos or grilled meats. The three- to four-inch pods are available in specialty Mexican markets.

• Ready In: 2 hrs 10 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 10  ounces  tamarind pods, peeled (about 29)
• 10  cups water
• 1⁄2-1  cup sugar

Directions

1. Wash the tamarinds and soak in 4 cups (32 fl oz/1 l) hot water for 2 hours.
2. After the tamarinds have soaked, reach into the bowl and rub them against each other for at least 5 minutes to obtain as much pulp as possible, about 2 cups.
3. Strain the liquid into a pitcher, dilute with 6 cups (48 fl oz/1.5 l) cold water and sweeten to taste.