What is this food?
Boiled unripe tamarind (tamarind fruit) — a sour, tangy vegetable-style ingredient often used as a side or flavoring in meals.
Why it matters to health
Per 100g, it’s low in calories (~30 kcal) and has very little fat (about 0.1g) and no cholesterol. It also provides carbohydrates (~6.6g), which can help with energy for your daily meals. Since it’s sour and flavorful, it can make meals more satisfying without adding much oil or sugar. It’s a good option to pair with balanced viands and vegetables, especially for lunch and dinner.
Healthier tips
- Use it as a side or add a small portion to your ulam/soup to boost flavor.
- Pair with lean protein (fish, chicken, tofu) and non-starchy vegetables to make your plate more filling.
- If you’re eating it as a snack, keep the portion small and combine with protein (e.g., boiled egg, tofu) to stay full longer.
- Go easy on added sugar or sweet sauces—keep the sour taste as the star.
- For a typical day: enjoy it with your 3 full meals, and if you snack, choose fruit, nuts, or yogurt instead of frequent sweetened tamarind drinks.
Common Filipino dishes
Sinigang (tamarind-based), tamarind soup, tamarind-based fish stew, tamarind fruit as a sour side, tamarind agua fresca