Question: Where Can I Buy Fresh Tamarinds?
By: Lois Downy
Published: February 25, 2010

I'd like to try making worcestershire sauce from scratch, but without the anchovies since I am a vegetarian. I don't know where to look for the fresh tamarinds, though.

Answers:
Barnaby Dorfman

Though sometimes marketed as "fresh tamarind," I don't think you actually want "fresh" tamarind, but rather the dried pods. Many Asian markets sell whole dried tamarind pods. That said, there is very little difference between tamarind paste and what you will extract from a whole pod, so consider using that as well. If you don't have an Asian market in your area, you can order tamarind online at a variety of places including Amazon.com.
Here's more info: http://www.foodista.com/food/VBK7NNLS/tamarind
Curt

Use tamarind paste...available at any Asian market like Uwajimaya or a number of places in the International District in seattle.
Chris Paulk

I've found fresh tamarinds at my local supermarket, and most asian markets.