Guaje Verde

Seasonality: Year round
Origin: Mexico

Guaje is a type of legume sometimes known as wild tamarind. The pod is long and slender and contains small seeds that have a sweet and tangy flavor similar to tamarind but less sour. Guaje lends a unique flavor and is a popular ingredient in traditional Mexican dishes such as mole, pozole, salsa and guacamole.

To prepare, pinch the pod on the bottom end without the stem and tear off the end, taking off the string as well. Separate the top and bottom and pop out the seeds. Seeds can be used raw or cooked. In Mexico, the seeds are often roasted, salted and eaten as a snack.