Where to Buy Tamarind (Online & In Stores)

Finding tamarind used to require a trip to a specialty grocery store. Today, thanks to broader interest in global cuisines and expanded grocery inventories, tamarind products are more accessible than ever. Whether you prefer shopping online or browsing store shelves, this guide will help you locate the right tamarind product for your needs.

Where to Find Tamarind in Grocery Stores

Asian Grocery Stores

Asian supermarkets are the most reliable brick-and-mortar source for tamarind products. Stores like H Mart, 99 Ranch Market, and independent Asian grocers typically stock multiple forms of tamarind:

• Compressed tamarind blocks (with or without seeds)
• Jarred tamarind paste (various brands and origins)
• Tamarind concentrate in squeeze bottles
• Whole tamarind pods (seasonal availability)
• Tamarind candy and snacks

The international aisle of these stores is where you will find the widest selection and the best prices. Staff members can often help you choose between products if you describe your intended use.

Indian Grocery Stores

Indian grocery stores are another excellent source. They typically carry Laxmi, Swad, and other Indian-branded tamarind pastes alongside compressed tamarind blocks. Prices at Indian grocery stores tend to be very competitive, and the products are oriented toward the thicker, more intensely sour tamarind preferred in South Indian cooking.

Latin American Grocery Stores

Mexican and Latin American markets often stock tamarind pods, tamarind candy, and tamarind pulp. If you are looking for whole pods or sweet tamarind for drinks and desserts, a Latin American grocery store is a good option.

Mainstream Supermarkets

Many conventional supermarkets now carry at least one tamarind product. Look in these locations:

• International or Asian foods aisle: Tamarind paste and concentrate are typically shelved near soy sauce, fish sauce, and curry paste.
• Latin American foods section: Whole tamarind pods and tamarind candy may be stocked here.
• Spice aisle: Some stores place tamarind paste near other Indian spices and sauces.

Chains like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s (limited), Kroger, and Walmart increasingly carry tamarind concentrate, particularly the Tamicon brand. Availability varies by location and region — stores in areas with larger Asian or Latin American populations tend to have better selection.

Buying Tamarind Online

Online shopping offers the widest selection and is the most reliable option if local stores do not carry tamarind.

Amazon

Amazon carries the full range of tamarind products from multiple brands. Popular options include Tamicon concentrate, Neera’s paste, Laxmi paste, and compressed tamarind blocks. Prime shipping makes this a convenient option, though prices can be slightly higher than specialty grocery stores.

For our specific product recommendations, see our tamarind paste buying guide.

Specialty Online Retailers

Several online retailers specialize in Asian, Indian, or international ingredients:

• iShopIndian and similar sites carry a wide range of Indian tamarind products.
• ImportFood.com specializes in Thai ingredients and offers high-quality Thai tamarind.
• MexGrocer.com stocks Mexican tamarind products including whole pods and candy.

These specialty retailers often offer bulk purchasing options at lower per-unit prices.

What Form Should You Buy?

The best form of tamarind depends on how you plan to use it and how frequently you cook with it:

Tamarind concentrate (squeeze bottle) is ideal for beginners and occasional users. It requires no preparation, dissolves instantly, and has a long shelf life. Tamicon is the most widely available brand.

Tamarind paste (jarred) offers better flavor than concentrate with only slightly more effort. It is the best balance of convenience and quality for regular home cooks.

Compressed blocks deliver the freshest flavor and the best value per ounce. They require soaking and straining but produce superior results. Recommended for frequent tamarind users and cooks who prioritize flavor.

Whole pods provide the most authentic experience and the freshest possible flavor. They require the most preparation (shelling, soaking, straining) and are best for dedicated cooks or special occasions.

For a detailed comparison of paste and concentrate, see our paste vs. concentrate guide.

What to Look for When Buying

Regardless of where you shop, keep these quality indicators in mind:

• Check the ingredients: The best products list only tamarind and water. Avoid products with long lists of additives.
• Look for the production or expiration date: Tamarind has good shelf stability, but fresher products taste better.
• Consider the origin: Indian tamarind is typically more sour; Thai tamarind is sweeter and milder. Choose based on your cooking style.
• Evaluate the packaging: Squeeze bottles and jars with tight-sealing lids keep tamarind fresh longer than pouches.

Storage After Purchase

Once you have purchased tamarind:

• Concentrate and paste: Refrigerate after opening. Use within 6 to 12 months.
• Compressed blocks: Store at room temperature in a sealed container, or refrigerate for extended life.
• Whole pods: Keep in a cool, dry place. Use within a few months for the best flavor.
• Homemade paste: Freeze in ice cube trays for convenient long-term storage.

Getting Started

If you have never cooked with tamarind before, we recommend starting with a bottle of Tamicon concentrate from your nearest grocery store or Amazon. It is forgiving, affordable, and versatile enough for almost any recipe. As you develop confidence, explore paste and block forms for richer flavor.

For inspiration on what to cook, see our guide to using tamarind in cooking. For background on the ingredient, start with our complete tamarind guide.