Polvere di tamarindo

I was skeptical about powdered tamarind but this stuff actually works — I used it in a sweet chutney and the sour punch came through instantly. Since the only ingredient is tamarind, there's no weird filler taste like some blends have.

Finally a powder that actually tastes like real tamarind and not just sour vinegar. It dissolves easily into my sambar and rasam, giving that authentic tang without any clumping. I've already used it in a batch of candy too, and the balance of sweet and sour came out perfect.

I was skeptical about using powder instead of the brick form, but this turned my dal tadka wonderfully tangy without any gritty bits. The sour kick is just right for a tamarind chutney too, and a little goes a long way in sweet drinks.