Vinegar + Sugar Substitute for Tamarind: Exact Ratio
Looking for a tamarind substitute? Vinegar + Sugar works as a direct replacement. Use 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp tamarind in any recipe that calls for tamarind. This swap works best for chutneys, sauces, soups.
Best Substitute
Vinegar + Sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp tamarind
Simple substitute providing acidity and sweetness. Use rice or apple cider vinegar for milder flavor.
Tips When Replacing Tamarind in Recipes
When using tamarind paste from a block, soak it in warm water and strain out seeds and fibers. Store prepared tamarind paste in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze in ice cube trays for longer storage.
What Is Tamarind and Why Substitute It?
Tamarind is a tangy, sweet-sour tropical fruit paste or pulp used extensively in South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Latin American cooking. It adds a distinctive fruity sourness to curries, chutneys, sauces, and drinks.
Vinegar + Sugar is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of tamarind. For a complete list of tamarind substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full tamarind substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Tamarind?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vinegar + sugar instead of tamarind?
Yes, you can use vinegar + sugar as a substitute for tamarind. Use 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp tamarind. Simple substitute providing acidity and sweetness. Use rice or apple cider vinegar for milder flavor.
How much vinegar + sugar equals tamarind?
Use 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp tamarind to replace tamarind with vinegar + sugar. Works best for chutneys, sauces, soups.
What is the best substitute for tamarind?
Vinegar + Sugar is a popular substitute for tamarind. Use 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp tamarind for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our tamarind substitute page.
Is vinegar + sugar a vegan substitute for tamarind?
Yes, vinegar + sugar is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to tamarind. Use 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp tamarind.