The pulp dehydrates to a sticky paste enclosed by a few coarse stands of fiber. The pods may contain from 1 to 12 large, flat, glossy brown seeds. Most of the tamarinds in this area are short and contain 3-6 seeds. Mature trees are capable of producing up to 350 pounds of fruit a year. Tamarinds are available from April to July.
Many oriental markets carry tamarind paste and frozen concentrate.
Don't be put off by this appearance, the pulp has a pleasing flavor, tasting strongly of apricots, dates and lemons. Tamarinds can be stored at room temperature for several weeks, if tightly packaged. Tamarind pulp can be frozen for up to a year or refrigerated for approximately 6 months. Tamarind paste is somewhat easier to use and may be more readily available. It still has seeds in it but is easier to use than going through the scraping process of the fresh tamarind.