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Whole Cardamom

Whole cardamom, a popular and versatile spice, originates from the seeds of the Elettaria cardamomum plant native to South Asia. Encased in oval-shaped green or black pods, there are three main types - green cardamom, black cardamom, and white cardamom. Green cardamom, the most widely used, is known for its sweet, floral, and subtly citrusy taste, while black cardamom offers a bolder and smokier flavor. Favored in both sweet and savory dishes, cardamom is a staple in many global cuisines, including Indian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian. In home cooking, it can be used whole, crushed, or ground, making it a versatile addition to recipes such as chai tea, spice blends, and baked goods. Choosing whole cardamom offers a fresher and more robust flavor than its pre-ground counterpart.
#118
IN SEASONINGS
311
CAL / 100G
$9.46
AVG / OZ
whole cardamom
80%
CARBS
8%
FAT
13%
PROTEIN
Whole Cardamom FAQ
Whole cardamom is a flavorful spice that can add depth and complexity to many dishes. When cooking with whole cardamom, people often struggle with knowing when to use green versus black cardamom as they have significantly different taste profiles. Choosing the right type of cardamom can make or break a dish. Another common mistake is overcooking cardamom, as it can become bitter if cooked for too long. Whole cardamom provides more intense flavors than the pre-ground version. To get the most out of it, lightly toast the pods before using to release their oils and enhance their flavor. When you're ready to use the cardamom, remove the seeds from the pods and grind them with a mortar and pestle for the freshest taste. An interesting cooking hack for whole cardamom is that you can also use the discarded pods to infuse flavor into teas, stews, and broths. Little known fact: Rather than using whole cardamom only in savory dishes, many chefs like to use it in sweet dishes like pastries and desserts. The blend of sweet and spicy gives the dish an exotic flavor.
What's the difference between green and black cardamom?
Can I use cardamom pods in place of ground cardamom?
How do I grind whole cardamom?
Why are my dishes bitter when I use whole cardamom?
When should I use whole cardamom vs. ground cardamom?
How do you cook with whole cardamom?
Can you eat the whole cardamom pod?
How many cardamom seeds are in a pod?
Can you substitute green cardamom for black cardamom?
How do I enhance the flavor of cardamom in my dishes?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does whole cardamom expire?
Whole cardamom can last quite a long time if stored properly. Unopened, whole cardamom pods can last for up to 3-4 years - pretty impressive for a spice! Once the package has been opened, the cardamom pods should retain their flavor and quality for up to a year. If ground, cardamom can lose its flavor quickly and should be used within six months. It's not common to freeze this spice, but if you choose to, it should maintain good quality for up to three years.
How do you tell if whole cardamom is bad?
The best way to tell if your whole cardamom has gone bad is by scent and taste. Fresh cardamom should have a strong and aromatic fragrance that is notably sweet and spicy, and the taste will be complex - slightly sweet, floral, and a little spicy. If the scent seems faded or nonexistent, that's a sign your cardamom may have lost its potency. If it tastes flat or stale, then your cardamom has probably gone past its prime. Cardamom still safe to use, but for the best flavor, you'll want to use it when it's still fresh.
Tips for storing whole cardamom to extend shelf life
• Always store your cardamom in a cool, dark, and dry place. Your kitchen cabinet (away from the stove or oven) is perfect for this. • Place whole cardamom in an air-tight container or jar to protect the seeds and oils from exposure to air, as this can degrade the flavor. • Try not to grind whole cardamom until you're about to use it. That increases its shelf life and maintains its robust flavor. • If you obtain a large quantity of cardamom and want to extend its shelf life, freezing in an airtight container can be a helpful method.
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 3.6
YEARS
Health Info
Macros
3g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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