Kokum · Amsol

Kokum

Sour and fruity with a purple colour.

Forms Dried rindsHeat No heat

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Garcinia indica - fruits, seeds, pulp and rinds

Photo: Subray Hegde, CC BY 1.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Key facts

Also calledAmsol
FlavourSour and fruity with a purple colour.
HeatNo heat
Sold asDried rinds
Stays freshWhole: 1 year · check your jars
Best substituteTamarind or lime juice.
Used in2 of our dishes

How to use it

A souring agent in Konkani, Goan and Malvani curries and in sol kadhi, the pink coconut-milk drink.

  • Soak the rinds in warm water and add the soaking water too.

Substitute

Tamarind or lime juice.

Storage

Keep dry rinds in a jar for a year.

Kokum grows along India’s western coast, from the Konkan to Kerala.

Pairs well with

Dishes that use kokum

Frequently asked questions

What is kokum called in Hindi?

Kokum. Also known as Amsol.

What can I use instead of kokum?

Tamarind or lime juice.

How long does kokum keep?

Keep dry rinds in a jar for a year.

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