How to Make Tamar Hindi Drink (Tamarind Juice)

 

A sweet, tangy, and cooling Middle Eastern favourite perfect for hot weather or Ramadan

Tamar Hindi, also known as Tamarind Drink, is a refreshing and tangy beverage that’s widely enjoyed across the Middle East, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. Its name comes from “Tamar al-Hindi,” which means "Indian date" in Arabic – a reference to the tamarind fruit, known for its sour-sweet flavour and rich nutritional profile.

Traditionally served chilled, this drink is both hydrating and packed with bold, distinctive flavour. Whether you’re preparing for a special gathering or just want something different from the usual juices and sodas, Tamar Hindi is an excellent choice.

In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple and authentic way to make Tamar Hindi at home, using British English spelling and familiar kitchen measurements.

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🧃 Ingredients (Serves 4)

200g tamarind pulp (store-bought or fresh, without seeds)

1 litre cold water

100g granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon rose water (optional, for fragrance)

A handful of ice cubes

Optional garnish: mint leaves or lemon slices

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🥄 Method

1. Soak the Tamarind

Place the tamarind pulp in a large bowl or jug and pour in 500 ml of warm water. Let it soak for 1–2 hours to soften. You can also leave it overnight in the fridge for stronger flavour.

2. Mash and Strain

Once the pulp is soft, use your hands or a spoon to mash the tamarind thoroughly, releasing its juice and breaking up the fibres. Then strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another jug or bowl, pressing down to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the fibrous solids.

3. Add Sugar and Rose Water

To the strained tamarind juice, add the sugar and stir until it fully dissolves. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If desired, add rose water for a floral aroma—it’s a traditional touch, especially during Ramadan.

4. Dilute and Chill

Pour in the remaining 500 ml of cold water to dilute the mixture. Stir well, cover, and place it in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes.

5. Serve with Ice

Serve the Tamar Hindi over ice cubes in glasses. You can garnish with fresh mint leaves or lemon slices for an extra burst of freshness.

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🍋 Serving Suggestions

Best served ice-cold on hot days or after a long fast.

Pair it with savory snacks like samosas, falafel, or kibbeh.

Pour it into a jug with floating mint and lemon for a beautiful table presentation.

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🌿 Health Benefits of Tamarind

Tamarind is more than just flavourful—it also brings a range of health benefits:

Rich in antioxidants that help fight inflammation

Aids digestion and helps relieve bloating

Contains vitamin C and minerals like magnesium and potassium

May help in controlling blood sugar levels

No wonder this drink has stood the test of time across cultures and cuisines!

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💡 Tips for a Perfect Tamar Hindi

If you prefer a smoother drink, strain the tamarind juice twice to remove all fibres.

Date syrup or honey can be used instead of sugar for a healthier alternative.

For a fizzy version, try mixing the drink with a splash of sparkling water just before serving.

You can store the concentrate in the fridge for up to 3 days and dilute as needed.

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🌙 A Ramadan Favourite

Tamar Hindi is especially popular during Ramadan, served at iftar to break the fast. Its sharp, fruity taste helps awaken the palate, and its hydrating properties make it ideal after long hours without food or drink.

It’s also commonly sold by street vendors in Middle Eastern countries, often from copper jugs carried over the shoulder—a nostalgic image for many during festive seasons.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to expand your drink repertoire, Tamar Hindi offers a delightful balance of sweet and sour that’s sure to impress. Easy to make and wonderfully refreshing, it’s perfect for warm days, special occasions, or simply to enjoy a taste of Middle Eastern tradition at home.

Soak, mix, chill, and sip—it’s that simple. Give Tamar Hindi a try, and discover a new favourite that’s full of flavour and heritage.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

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