Tamarind Chutney

Ingredients:

1 cup tamarind shelled and De-seeded
1/2 cup dates De-seeded (Optional)
1/4 cup sugar
2 cups water
1/2 tsp. red chilli powder
1/2 crushed cumin seeds

Piece of cinnamon sticks or bay leaf (not too much since bay leaf has its own distinct aroma and taste. Too much will over power the tamarind)
1 tsp. salt

Method:

1.      De-shell and wash the tamarind clean

2.     Place the tamarind, sugar dates, cinnamon and water in a deep boiling put and leave to soak for 5 mins.

3.      Put to boil for approximately 9- 10 mins.

4.      Allow to cool

5.      Remove the cinnamon stick ( or bay leaf) then blend in a electric blender until smooth

6.      Strain and transfer the mixture into the boiling pot again

7.      Allow the mixture to boil until it is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon thinly ( don’t let the mixture burn so a low heat is better)

8.      Add the seasoning.

9.      Allow to cool and then store in clean airtight bottles and refrigerate