Cardamom Pods (Elettaria cardamomom) are the seed pods, or fruit, of the herbaceous perennial Cardamom plant, native to the tropical regions of Sri Lanka, India and Guatemala. A member of the Ginger family, the plant has a tall flowering shoot surrounded by leafy shoots that can grow up to 20 feet tall. The pods can be white, green or black depending on how they are dried and processed. Green Cardamom is dried for one day and night in a kiln or controlled, heated room and is considered true cardamom. Cardamom is the 3rd most expensive spice in the world behind saffron and vanilla, prized for its pungent and unique flavor profile which has been compared to clove and cinnamon with hints of citrus and mint. Cardamom is a prominent flavor in many varied cuisines around the world from Scandinavia, India and the Mediterranean region to the coasts of Central America. Cardamom can be used whole or ground, in sweets or in savory dishes. It makes a lovely digestive tea either on its own or combined with other spices, and it can be chewed for oral health and fresh breath. It is also an essential component of chai spice blends.
Common names: Capalaga, Ilachi, Green Cardamom, True Cardamom, Ceylon Cardamom