Tamarind paste or tamarind sauce is used to add a unique and delicious sweet and tangy flavor to Thai and Indian dishes. Learn how to make easy homemade tamarind paste in the Instant Pot.
Separate the tamarind block into large pieces and place in the Instant Pot.
Stir in 2 cups water.
Close Instant Pot Lid, and make sure steam release handle is in the ‘Sealing’ position.
Cook on 'Manual' (or 'Pressure Cook') mode for 10 minutes.
Do a quick release of pressure and open the Instant Pot.
Using a potato masher, mash the tamarind pulp.
Place a mesh strainer over a medium bowl.
Working in batches, place tamarind pulp in the strainer and strain by pressing with the back of a spoon or with clean hands (once it's cool enough to handle.)
Set aside strained solids.
If desired, repeat the process by adding 1 cup of hot water to the strained solids and strain it a second time.
Discard strained solids.
Place tamarind paste in a clean glass jar and store in the refrigerator or freeze in batches.
Notes
Prep time does not include steps that are already accounted for in the ingredient list, e.g. minced garlic, cut vegetables, etc.