Green Cardamoms (Elaichi)

Cardamom is a spice made from the pods of a small plant that belongs to the ginger family. The small seeds inside the dark green plump pods when crushed have a unique aroma and I have used in in my desserts such as Vorn (Payasam), Boal and Kheer. I also add the seeds for my masala bases along with other spices for their flavour. I love them whole in my Mustard Pork or slightly bruised in my chicken with Cashew and Almonds for their sweet taste and aroma. My Sweet Pulao would not be the same without these pods as they add a beautiful lingering sweet aroma. It is best to buy them in pods and use them as required. If you find these pods on your plate just leave them aside as they are strong to taste.