15 Thanksgiving Recipes With Tamarind for Tangy South Asian Holiday Flavors

15 Thanksgiving Recipes With Tamarind for Tangy South Asian Holiday Flavors

Tamarind Glazed Turkey

tamarind glazed turkey recipe

Tamarind glazed turkey is a festive and tangy twist on the traditional Thanksgiving roast. The sweet and sour flavors of tamarind complement the rich taste of the turkey, creating a juicy and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends at the holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole turkey 12-15 lbs
Tamarind paste 1 cup
Brown sugar ½ cup
Soy sauce ¼ cup
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Fresh ginger, minced 1 tablespoon
Apple cider vinegar ¼ cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1 tablespoon
Black pepper 1 teaspoon
Fresh thyme 2 sprigs
Water 2 cups

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix tamarind paste, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
  3. Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat dry. Rub the tamarind glaze thoroughly over the turkey, making sure to cover all surfaces.
  4. Place fresh thyme inside the cavity of the turkey and pour water into the roasting pan.
  5. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3-4 hours, basting with the leftover glaze every 30 minutes.
  6. Check the turkey’s internal temperature (should reach 165°F or 75°C). Let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
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Spicy Tamarind Cranberry Sauce

tart spicy cranberry sauce

Spicy tamarind cranberry sauce gives a delightful twist to the classic Thanksgiving dish, blending the tartness of cranberries with the unique sweet and tangy flavor of tamarind. This sauce is a perfect side to balance the richness of turkey and enhances the overall festive experience on your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cranberries 12 oz (340g)
Tamarind paste 2 tablespoons
Brown sugar ½ cup
Water 1 cup
Orange juice ½ cup
Fresh ginger, minced 1 tablespoon
Cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Red pepper flakes ¼ teaspoon (optional)
Salt to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, tamarind paste, brown sugar, water, orange juice, ginger, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to simmer.
  3. Cook until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Season with salt to taste and remove from heat. Let it cool before serving.
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Tamarind Mashed Sweet Potatoes

tamarind sweet potato mash

Tamarind mashed sweet potatoes are a delicious and unique twist on the traditional Thanksgiving side dish. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is enhanced by the tangy flavor of tamarind, creating a creamy and flavorful mash that pairs perfectly with turkey and other festive foods. This dish will surely become a new holiday favorite!

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 2 lbs (900g)
Tamarind paste 2 tablespoons
Butter 4 tablespoons
Milk ½ cup
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into cubes, then boil in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
  3. Add tamarind paste, butter, milk, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper to the sweet potatoes.
  4. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning to taste.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
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Tamarind-Infused Green Beans

tamarind infused green beans recipe

Tamarind-infused green beans are a vibrant and tangy side dish that brings a refreshing twist to your Thanksgiving table. The unique flavor of tamarind complements the crispness of green beans, creating a dish that is both delicious and visually appealing. This recipe is quick to prepare and is sure to impress your family and guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 lb (450g)
Tamarind paste 1 tablespoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Red pepper flakes ½ teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Trim the ends of the green beans and blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the blanched green beans, tamarind paste, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Toss to coat well and cook for another 3-5 minutes until heated through.
  4. Serve warm, garnished with toasted sesame seeds.
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Tamarind Stuffing With Nuts and Raisins

tamarind nut raisin stuffing recipe

Tamarind stuffing with nuts and raisins is a unique and flavorful twist on traditional Thanksgiving stuffing. The tartness of tamarind combined with the sweetness of raisins and the crunch of mixed nuts creates an unforgettable stuffing that pairs beautifully with turkey and complements other festive dishes.

Ingredients Quantity
Bread cubes (preferably stale) 4 cups
Tamarind paste 2 tablespoons
Onion, diced 1 medium
Celery, diced 1 cup
Mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans, almonds) 1 cup
Raisins ½ cup
Vegetable or chicken broth 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley, chopped ¼ cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, bread cubes, tamarind paste, mixed nuts, raisins, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
  4. Gradually add the broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
  5. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.
  6. Serve warm as a delicious side to your Thanksgiving feast.
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Tamarind Roasted Carrots

tamarind roasted carrot recipe

Tamarind roasted carrots are a delightful side dish that brings a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess to your Thanksgiving table. The rich flavor of tamarind enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots, making them a flavorful addition that pairs well with turkey and other traditional dishes.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots, peeled and cut into sticks 1 pound
Tamarind paste 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Honey or maple syrup 1 tablespoon
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the carrots with tamarind paste, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the carrots are well coated.
  3. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, tossing halfway through for even cooking.
  5. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving warm alongside your Thanksgiving meal.
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Tamarind Chutney Deviled Eggs

tamarind chutney deviled eggs

Tamarind Chutney Deviled Eggs are a unique twist on a classic appetizer that will add a burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving spread. The tangy sweetness of tamarind chutney elevates the traditional deviled eggs, creating a delightful combination that will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Ingredients Quantity
Hard-boiled eggs 6
Tamarind chutney 3 tablespoons
Mayonnaise 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Slice the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise and remove the yolks into a bowl.
  2. Mash the egg yolks and mix with tamarind chutney, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and ground black pepper until smooth.
  3. Spoon or pipe the mixture back into the egg white halves.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy these flavorful bites at your Thanksgiving gathering!
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Tamarind Pumpkin Soup

tamarind pumpkin soup recipe

Tamarind Pumpkin Soup is a deliciously seasonal dish that combines the earthy flavors of pumpkin with the tangy sweetness of tamarind. This velvety soup is perfect for warming up during the chilly Thanksgiving season, offering a unique and comforting start to your holiday meal. With a few simple ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and will undoubtedly impress your guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin (peeled and diced) 2 cups
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Tamarind paste 2 tablespoons
Coconut milk 1 cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
  2. Add the diced pumpkin and cook for a few minutes until slightly tender.
  3. Stir in the vegetable broth, tamarind paste, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil and then simmer until the pumpkin is fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth.
  5. Return the soup to the pot, stir in the coconut milk, and heat through. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your tamarind pumpkin soup this Thanksgiving!
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Tamarind Masala Roasted Brussels Sprouts

tamarind masala brussels sprouts

Tamarind Masala Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a delightful side dish that combines the nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts with the tangy kick of tamarind and warm spices. Perfect for Thanksgiving, this dish not only adds a pop of color to your table but also elevates the traditional Brussels sprouts to a whole new level of flavor that will leave your guests wanting more.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts (halved) 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Tamarind paste 1 tablespoon
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander 1 teaspoon
Turmeric powder ½ teaspoon
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, tamarind paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are crispy and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
  5. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm alongside your Thanksgiving feast! Enjoy the flavorful twist on this classic vegetable.
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Tamarind and Coconut Rice

tropical tamarind coconut rice

Tamarind and Coconut Rice is a fragrant and flavorful dish that brings a tropical twist to your Thanksgiving table. The combination of creamy coconut milk with the tangy taste of tamarind creates a unique flavor profile that perfectly complements savory dishes, making it an ideal side dish.

Ingredients Quantity
Basmati rice 1 cup
Coconut milk 1 cup
Tamarind paste 2 tablespoons
Water 1 cup
Onion (finely chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Ginger (grated) 1 teaspoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
  2. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and softened.
  3. Stir in the coconut milk, tamarind paste, water, and salt, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, cover, and cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  5. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy this exotic addition to your Thanksgiving spread!

Tamarind-Glazed Ham

tamarind glazed holiday ham

Tamarind-Glazed Ham is a delightful twist on the classic holiday centerpiece. The rich, tangy glaze made from tamarind paste adds a unique depth of flavor to the ham, perfectly balancing sweetness and acidity. This dish is a showstopper for your Thanksgiving feast, bringing an exciting fusion of flavors that your guests will rave about.

Ingredients Quantity
Bone-in ham 5-7 pounds
Tamarind paste 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Honey 1/3 cup
Soy sauce 1/4 cup
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 4 cloves
Ground ginger 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Water 1 cup
Fresh herbs (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the tamarind paste, brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and water to make the glaze.
  3. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and place it in a roasting pan.
  4. Brush half of the tamarind glaze over the ham and cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
  5. Bake the ham for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze, until heated through and caramelized.
  6. Once done, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm. Enjoy the tangy goodness of your Tamarind-Glazed Ham!

Tamarind Apple Crisp

tart tamarind apple dessert

Tamarind Apple Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of apples with the unique flavor of tamarind, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy. Topped with a crunchy streusel crust, this dish is a perfect ending to your Thanksgiving meal, showcasing an exciting twist on the traditional apple crisp that will leave your guests wanting more.

Ingredients Quantity
Granny Smith apples 6 cups, sliced
Tamarind paste 1/4 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Oats 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/3 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with tamarind paste, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until well combined. Pour into a greased baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, mix oats, flour, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt to create the streusel topping.
  4. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the apple mixture.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm Tamarind Apple Crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Tamarind Pecan Pie

tamarind pecan pie recipe

Tamarind Pecan Pie is a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering a unique combination of rich flavors and a hint of tartness from the tamarind. This dessert is perfect for Thanksgiving, providing a sweet and tangy experience that will surprise and delight your guests while still delivering the comfort of the traditional favorite.

Ingredients Quantity
Pecan halves 1 1/2 cups
Tamarind paste 1/3 cup
Light corn syrup 1 cup
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter, melted 1/3 cup
Eggs 3 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) 1 (9-inch)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine tamarind paste, corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until well blended.
  3. Stir in the pecan halves until evenly coated with the mixture.
  4. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until set and the top is golden brown.
  6. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired. Enjoy your Tamarind Pecan Pie!

Tamarind-Infused Gravy

tamarind gravy for thanksgiving

Tamarind-Infused Gravy is a savory and tangy accompaniment that elevates your Thanksgiving feast. This delightful gravy combines the rich flavors of traditional gravy with the unique tartness of tamarind, adding an unexpected depth to your roasted turkey or other holiday dishes. It’s the perfect way to enhance the flavors of your meal and impress your guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter 1/4 cup
All-purpose flour 1/4 cup
Chicken or vegetable broth 2 cups
Tamarind paste 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) optional for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes to create a roux.
  3. Gradually add the broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
  4. Stir in the tamarind paste and soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce).
  5. Cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing it to thicken, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy your tangy Tamarind-Infused Gravy!

Tamarind Sorbet for Dessert

tamarind sorbet dessert recipe

Tamarind Sorbet is a refreshing and tangy dessert that serves as a perfect palate cleanser after a hearty Thanksgiving meal. Its unique flavor profile combines the tartness of tamarind with a hint of sweetness, making it an irresistible treat to end the feast on a light note.

Ingredients Quantity
Tamarind paste 1 cup
Sugar 3/4 cup
Water 2 cups
Lime juice 2 tablespoons
Pinch of salt to taste
Fresh mint (for garnish) optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a saucepan, combine the tamarind paste, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice and a pinch of salt.
  3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  4. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a sorbet consistency.
  5. Transfer the sorbet to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
  6. Serve scoops of tamarind sorbet garnished with fresh mint. Enjoy this delightful dessert!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.