General Description
Cardamom is the ground seed of a tropical fruit in the ginger family known as Elettaria cardamomum. The seeds are found in the oval shaped fruit pods that are between 1/4" and 1" long.
Geographical Sources
Cardamom comes from India, Guatemala and Ceylon.
Traditional Ethnic Uses
In India, Cardamom is traditionally used in curry blends, and in Scandinavian countries it is commonly added to breads; however, most of the world's Cardamom is used in Arabic countries as a flavoring for coffee.
Taste and Aroma
Cardamom has an intense, pungent, sweet flavor.
History/Region of Origin
As early as the 4th century BC Cardamom was used in India as a medicinal herb. Greeks and Romans imported it as a digestive aid. In Sweden it has become a more popular spice than cinnamon.
