Black cardamom is the seed pods of closely related species that also are aromatic and have an appearance similar to that of true cardamom. But, black cardamom is not a suitable substitute in recipes that call for cardamom. Its flavor is much earthier with sweetness and a flowery accent that is different from that of true cardamom’s. It is an ingredient used in some African cooking and abroad to add a bacon like flavor to some vegetarian dishes.
Ground cardamom is convenient to have for baking and other applications where the spice needs to be ground. Freshness and thus flavor is of course compromised when cardamom is pre-ground because it loses flavor soon after grinding. To appreciate cardamom’s true flavor we suggest grinding it before use in a spice mill, electric coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle.
White cardamom can be found in the United States and Europe that has been bleached to achieve its color, or lack of it. It is often used in baking and some desserts because its color helps keep light colored batters, sauces, and confections speck free.
Cardamom has a sweet, spicy flavor with a pungent aroma and is often used in Indian cooking, especially curries, drinks, rice dishes and sweet desserts. Cardamom is less common in Western cooking, but is essential for some Scandinavian and Dutch dishes.
Cardamom is good for digestion. It can reduce flatulence and is also beneficial for heartburn. For some people, cardamom stimulates the appetite. It can help with stomach ulcers and nasal conditions by soothing the mucous membranes. Cardamom tea is a good way to consume the spice to counter indigestion.
Cardamom seeds can be chewed for a few minutes to counter halitosis. The pleasant aroma masks the odor of bad breath. You can also gargle an infusion of cardamom and cinnamon to soothe a sore throat and reduce the hoarseness associated with upper respiratory illnesses. A daily gargle of the mixture can act as a preventative for influenza.
When mixed with a tablespoon of banana leaf and amla (gooseberry) juice, cardamom seeds can provide relief from the burning feeling accompanying some cystitis or urinary tract infections. It is also a diuretic and can increase the output of urine, making it especially useful when a UTI causes scant urine production
Serving Size: 1 tbsp, ground (5 grams)
Amount Per Serving
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 0g 0%
Saturated Fat 0g 0%
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 1mg 0%
Total Carboydrates 3g 1%
Dietary Fiber 1g ~
Sugars 0g ~
Protein 1g 1%
Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 1%Iron 3% Calcium 1%