Carefully inspect the tamarind pods and choose twenty pods that seem mostly intact. Peel the pods.
Bring 5 cups of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Place the peeled tamarind pods in the boiling water and allow to simmer for about ten minutes. Remove from heat and allow the water and pods to cool completely.
With your hands, remove the pits from the pulp. Discard pits. Place the pulp and water into a blender and blend until smooth. Strain the mixture into a pitcher, squeezing the pulp through the strainer with a spoon. Add additional water and sugar until the flavor becomes balanced between sour and sweet. Serve over ice.
