Tamarind (Imli) is also known as Indian dates. These Indian dates comes from a tropical tree that is very common in South India. The popular fruit pulp is used throughout the world as a spice for centuries and it is extensively used in Indian cuisines for its savory flavor. Tamarind can be used in different forms such as whole (raw) and concentrate. When used in its raw form, it must be boiled and then squeezed through a sieve. The skin, seeds and all other fibers are to be thrown out before use. Use tamarind for making various chutneys, sauces, pastes, tangy pickles, rasam, sambhar, and puliogare. You can be as creative as you want with this spice. It is an essential for making delicious meals.