Spice of the Week
Where do Cardamom Pods come from?
Cardamom pods are part of the Zingiberaceae family along with other popular spices, such as ginger and turmeric.
There are two main types of cardamom – green cardamom and black cardamom. Green Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomom) is known as ‘true cardamom’. It is grown in tropical areas including India, Malaysia, and Costa Rica. Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) produces larger pods that are dark brown in colour and has a smoky flavour to it. This is grown in the eastern Himalayas.
How are they produced?
Cardamom pods are harvested just before they are ripe, and are sun-dried or alternatively, machine dried. To produce white cardamom, the green cardamom pods are bleached, which gives them less flavour than their green counterparts.
Did you know? Cardamom is the third most expensive spice on the market, showing just how luxurious the cardamom pod really is!
What are Cardamom Pods used for?
Cardamom has a strong, sweet flavour, with elements of mint and lemon in its aroma. Black cardamom tends to be slightly smoky with a menthol flavour. Therefore, cardamom is frequently chewed to refresh breath after meals.
The spice can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes and features in many different types of cooking, such as - Indian, Middle Eastern, Arabic, and Swedish cuisine. Much like Star Anise, as seen in our first Star Anise Blog Post, cardamom pods are also in the ‘Garam Masala’ blend. Cardamom pods are also frequently used in Turkish coffee. It is said that cardamom pods are excellent tonics and great for a little pick-me-up!
Joy Everley Jewellery Inspiration
Our spice collection features life-size cardamom pod charms throughout the range. Taking inspiration directly from the spice, giving the pieces their natural, organic shapes.
