Tamarindus indica L

SOME SAY it came from India and Southeast Asia; other say it appeared in Africa. The fact is that this large tree has adapted very well to Brazil, where it can be found in the North, Northeast, Midwest and Southeast regions. Due to its sharp acidity, the fruit is hardly eaten fresh, but the dense, brownish pulp is useful in the preparation of soft drinks, desserts and sauces to accompany savory dishes. In markets, it can be found whole, still in the pods, or peeled and pressed into blocks.