Flavor and Uses: Cardamom has a strong, unique flavor with hints of citrus, mint, and spice. It’s commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes. In cooking, cardamom is often added to baked goods, desserts, teas, coffees, curries, and rice dishes. It’s a key ingredient in many spice blends, such as garam masala and chai.

Varieties: There are two main types of cardamom: green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) and black cardamom (Amomum subulatum). Green cardamom is more commonly used and has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor, while black cardamom has a smoky, bold flavor and is often used in savory dishes.

Health Benefits: Cardamom is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, and improving respiratory health. It’s also rich in antioxidants.

Form and Storage: Cardamom can be found in whole pods, seeds, or ground form. To retain its flavor and aroma, it’s best to store cardamom in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Whole pods tend to have a longer shelf life compared to ground cardamom.

Substitution: If you don’t have cardamom on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of cinnamon and nutmeg, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same.