Green Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)

Green cardamom is one of the world’s most aromatic spices. The small, oval pods enclose tiny brown seeds with a vivid perfume that lifts both sweet and savory dishes—from chai and coffee to rice, stews, and desserts.

• Common name: Green cardamom (true cardamom)
• Latin name: Elettaria cardamomum
• Family: Zingiberaceae (ginger family)
• Origin/Provenance: South India & Sri Lanka; cultivated in other tropical regions
• Form: whole pods, seeds, or ground
• Synonyms: elaichi (Hindi), cardamom

Origin & Botany

A perennial herb related to ginger, cardamom thrives in humid, shaded forests. The three-sided green pods hold clusters of highly aromatic seeds; quality depends on careful harvest and drying.

Aroma & Flavor Profile

Intensely fragrant, with cool camphor, citrus and floral notes over gentle warmth. Whole pods protect aroma best; ground spice delivers immediate intensity but fades faster.

Culinary Uses & Pairings

Signature in masalas, biryani, kheer and halva; bright in Scandinavian pastries and Middle Eastern coffee. Excellent with cinnamon, clove, ginger, nutmeg, saffron, citrus, vanilla, almonds, lamb, rice and dairy.

How to Use

• Pods: bruise lightly to crack; add early to liquids (tea, rice, stews), remove before serving.
• Seeds: grind fresh in a mortar for baking or spice blends.
• Blooming: warm briefly in ghee/oil to open the perfume; avoid scorching.

Dosage & Tips

• Chai/coffee: 2–3 pods per 500 ml (2 cups) liquid.
• Rice/pilaf: 2 pods per 250 g (9 oz) rice.
• Baking: 1/4–1/2 tsp freshly ground seeds per 250 g (9 oz) flour.

Ingredients & Allergens

Ingredients: Green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum).

Allergens: none mandatory in EN labeling for this single spice.

Storage & Shelf Life

Store airtight, cool, dry and away from light. Whole pods keep aroma longer than ground; grind seeds just before use. Best within 12–18 months.

Substitutes & Notes

Black cardamom (Amomum spp.) is smoky and not a direct substitute. For baking, a mix of cinnamon and a hint of orange zest can echo some top notes; start at 3:1 and adjust.

Related Entries

• Cinnamon
• Clove
• Ginger

FAQ

Whole pods or ground?
Whole protects aroma; grind seeds fresh for baking or spice mixes.

When should I add cardamom?
Add pods early to liquids so the perfume infuses; add freshly ground seeds late for maximum impact.

Why are some pods pale or split?
Natural variations and handling; keep airtight to prevent drying and aroma loss.

Written by Orlandosidee Spice Expert — Reviewed by Editorial Team
Last updated: 2025-08-19

Merchant contact: Orlandosidee — Spice Shop (see site imprint for full company details).