Tangy, sweet, and spicy — this drink wakes up your taste buds!
There’s something about tamarind, sugar, and chili together that just works. It’s sweet, spicy, and tangy all at once — like a party in your mouth.
This Spiced Tamarind Frappe is my go-to on a hot day when I want something a little bold and a lot refreshing. Think iced tamarind punch with a fiery little kick.
This recipe takes only 10 minutes and makes 2 servings.
🧡 Why I Love This Recipe
This one takes me straight back to hot afternoons and spicy street snacks. It reminds me of sipping chilled tamarind juice with a little chili-salt rim.
Why I keep coming back to it:
- 🍹 It’s super refreshing but has heat — kind of like a grown-up slushie.
- 🧂 That mix of sweet and spicy? Totally addicting.
- 💡 Easy to make ahead or mix up in batches for friends.
- ✨ You only need a few ingredients.
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 1/4 cup tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups cold water
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Optional: Tamarind candy or chili-lime salt for garnish
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Tamarind is naturally acidic, which pairs beautifully with sugar to create a sweet-sour balance. The chili adds a little burn that lingers after the coldness fades. Ice blends with the water to create that smooth, slushy texture without diluting the flavor too much.
🍹 Pro Tips
- Blend it last minute. It tastes best right after blending — cold, frothy, and fresh.
- Taste and adjust. Depending on your tamarind paste, you might want more or less sugar.
- Use crushed ice. It blends faster and gives a smoother texture.
- Chili on the rim = magic. Don’t skip it if you want that little extra punch.
- Double it. This drink disappears fast. Just saying.
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Blender
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cup
- Small bowls for spices
- Glasses for serving
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Sugar: Try honey or agave instead of brown sugar.
- Chili: Use Tajín or chili-lime seasoning for a tangier vibe.
- Tamarind paste: If using a block, soak it in warm water and strain first.
- Add-ins: A splash of lime juice or mint can take it in a new direction.
🧊 Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the tamarind base (everything except the ice) and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Blend with ice when ready to serve.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Add tamarind paste, brown sugar, chili powder, and salt to the blender.
Ingredients used: 1/4 cup tamarind paste, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/8 tsp salt
2. Pour in cold water.
Ingredients used: 1 1/2 cups cold water
3. Add ice cubes.
Ingredients used: 1 cup ice cubes
4. Blend until smooth and frothy.
Ingredients used: All blended ingredients
5. Pour into glasses and garnish.
Ingredients used: Blended tamarind mixture, chili powder for rim, tamarind candy (optional)
🥶 Leftovers & Storage
This drink is best fresh, but you can refrigerate the blended mix (without ice) for up to 2 days. Shake or blend with fresh ice before serving again.
❌ Common Mistakes
- Using too much tamarind: It can turn too sour — start small and taste.
- Skipping the sugar: Balance is key. Tamarind needs sweetness.
- Blending too long: It’ll get watery. Blend just until smooth and frothy.
- Using warm water: Always go cold for the best frappe texture.
🍽️ What to Serve With
- Spicy snacks like chili-lime popcorn or roasted chickpeas
- Street-style fruit salad with lime and Tajín
- Grilled corn with mayo, cheese, and chili
❓ FAQ
Can I use tamarind concentrate instead of paste?
Yes! Just use half the amount since it’s stronger.
Is this drink spicy?
Mildly — more like a gentle heat at the end. You can adjust the chili to taste.
Can I make it without sugar?
You can, but it’ll be super sour. Try a natural sweetener like honey or dates.
What kind of tamarind paste should I use?
Look for one that lists only tamarind — no added sugar or spices.
💡 Meal Plan Ideas
- Lunch: Pair with grilled chicken tacos or rice bowls.
- Snack time: Sip it alongside spiced roasted nuts.
- Weekend treat: Serve at your next BBQ or picnic with snacks.
🏁 Wrap-Up
This Spiced Tamarind Frappe is proof that a drink doesn’t have to be complicated to blow your mind. It’s bold, icy, and refreshing with a little kick that keeps you coming back for more. If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out — drop a comment below or share your favorite twist on it!
