TAMARIND AQUA FRESCA

4 c. water
8 oz tamarind pods
2 TBS. sugar
ice cubes

Pour the water into a saucepan and heat until warm. Remove from heat and pore into bowl. Remove from heat and puree into a large bowl. Peel the tamarind pods and add the pulp to the warm water. Soak at least 4 hours. Place a sieve over a bowl. Pour the tamarind pulp and water into the sieve, then press the pulp into the sieve with a wooden spoon, leaving the black seeds and discarding the seeds. Add sugar to the tamarind mixture and stir until completely dissolved. Pour into a pitcher and chill.