Tamarind Juice

If using the pods, remove the shells and peel off the veins. Place the peeled tamarind fruit or tamarind paste in a pot with 5 cups of water.
Bring the water to a boil. Then lower to a simmer and cover, simmer covered for 30 minutes. Add sugar and stir until sugar has dissolved.

Remove from heat and let cool. Using a potato masher or your hands if the mixture is cool enough, mash the fruit and remove the seeds. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher. Add the remaining cups of water. If needed, add more sugar or water to taste. Stir well and serve over ice.