Organic Cardamom Pods 50g
Cardamom pods are the small, green or brown seed pods of plants from the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). They are prized for their sweet, aromatic flavour and are often referred to as the “queen of spices.”. The pods contain small black seeds, which are the most flavourful part, but the entire pod is often used in cooking.
Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits:
Aids Digestion: Helps relieve bloating, heartburn, and indigestion.
Antioxidant-Rich: May reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
Freshens Breath: Commonly chewed as a natural mouth freshener.
Supports Heart Health: May help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Anti-Microbial: Known for fighting bacteria and promoting oral health.
How to Use Cardamom Pods in Cooking
1. Sweet Dishes:
Desserts: Essential in Indian sweets like gulab jamun, kheer (rice pudding), and kulfi (Indian ice cream).
Baking: Used in Scandinavian pastries like cardamom buns or added to cakes, cookies, and spiced bread.
Hot Drinks: Enhances the flavour of coffee, chai tea, and hot chocolate. It’s a key ingredient in masala chai and Turkish coffee.
2. Savoury Dishes:
Curries and Rice Dishes: Adds warmth and complexity to biryanis, pilafs, and creamy curries like butter chicken or korma.
Stews and Soups: Used in Middle Eastern and Indian stews for a subtle, sweet spice.
Meat Marinades: Complements lamb, chicken, or beef in spice rubs or marinades.
3. Spice Blends:
Garam Masala: A key ingredient in this popular Indian spice mix.
Ras el Hanout: Found in Moroccan and North African spice blends.
Baharat: Middle Eastern spice mix often used in rice or meat dishes.