Wild Tamarind

Tamarindus indica — Fabaceae

Italiano: Tamarindo selvatico

Description

Wild Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) belongs to the Fabaceae family and is native to Africa. It thrives in Dry woodland, riverine forest environments across regions including Africa. Botanically, Wild Tamarind is long-lived African tree with tart brown pods used in cuisines worldwide. Native to Africa, now pantropical.. The edible parts include Fruit pods, Leaves. With an edibility rating of 7/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during April, June, March and May. Nutritionally, Wild Tamarind stands out for its Vitamin K (30.0mg, 25% DV), Vitamin C (20.0mg, 22% DV) and Vitamin E (1.0mg, 7% DV). It also provides 2.0g protein and 3.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving. In the kitchen, Wild Tamarind offers a Sour, sweet-sour when ripe, fruity flavor profile. Crack pods and soak pulp in warm water; strain. Common culinary applications include Sauces, Chutneys, Drinks, Soups. Popular preparations include Soak pods to make tamarind paste for sauces. For storage, refrigerate fresh parts. Safety note: Very acidic; may damage tooth enamel with excess. Antinutrient content is minimal. Be aware that Verify identification before consumption. Safe lookalike species include Similar edible species. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

🌿 Foraging Tips

Where to find: Grows in Dry woodland, riverine forest across Africa.

🍳 Recipe: Soak pods to make tamarind paste for sauces

Preparation method: Crack pods and soak pulp in warm water; strain
Flavor profile: Sour, sweet-sour when ripe, fruity
Edible parts: Fruit pods, Leaves

This is one of the traditional ways to prepare this wild edible plant. Always ensure proper plant identification before cooking.

When to harvest: Best months: Mar, Apr, May, Jun.
Lookalike (safe): Similar edible species
⚠️ Lookalike (toxic): Verify identification before consumption
Tip: Always verify identification with multiple sources before consuming any wild plant. When in doubt, do not eat it.

Edibility

7/10
Toxicity: Very acidic; may damage tooth enamel with excess
Antinutrients: Minimal
Safe lookalikes: Similar edible species
Dangerous: Verify identification before consumption

Harvest Calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Edible parts: Baccelli, Foglie
Preparation: Crack pods and soak pulp in warm water; strain
Flavor: Sour, sweet-sour when ripe, fruity

Nutrition (per 100g)

Protein: 2.0g
Fat: 0.5g
Fiber: 3.0g
Vitamin C: 20.0mg (22%DV)
Vitamin A: 50mcg (5%DV)
Vitamin E: 1.0mg (6%DV)
Vitamin K: 30mcg (25%DV)
Folate (B9): 20mcg (5%DV)
Calcium: 30.0mg (2%DV)
Iron: 1.0mg (5%DV)
Magnesium: 20mg (4%DV)
Potassium: 200mg (4%DV)
Zinc: 0.3mg (2%DV)

Culinary Uses: Sauces, Chutneys, Drinks, Soups Storage: Refrigerate fresh parts

Recipes

  • Soak pods to make tamarind paste for sauces

Where It Grows

Continent: Africa
Regions: Africa
Habitat: Dry woodland, riverine forest
⚠️
Important: Always verify plant identification before consumption. This content is for informational purposes only. Consult reliable sources and experts before eating any wild plant. Improper identification can be dangerous.

Sources & References