Ukwaju (Tamarind Juice)

Instructions

1. 1

   Peel the fresh tamarind pods and remove the stringy veins, leaving the sticky brown pulp and seeds.

2. 2

   Place the tamarind pulp in a large bowl and pour hot water over it. Let it soak for 30 minutes until softened.

3. 3

   Use your clean hands or a spoon to mash the softened tamarind in the water, separating the pulp from the seeds.

4. 4

   Pass the mixture through a fine sieve into a pitcher, pressing the pulp to extract all the thick juice. Discard the seeds and fibres left in the sieve.

5. 5

   Add sugar and whisk until completely dissolved. For a spiced twist, stir in cardamom powder.

6. 6

   Taste and add more water or sugar if it is too concentrated or sour.

7. 7

   Chill in the refrigerator. Pour over ice cubes and garnish with fresh mint before serving.