Cardamom, a spice with multiple virtues

Where does cardamom come from?

It is believed to have originated on the Abar Coast, a region of India where pepper is also cultivated. Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) is a herbaceous rhizome plant belonging to the Zingiberaceae family, from which the dried fruits (capsules) of the spice of the same name are obtained.

Which spice goes well with cardamom?

Cardamom seeds, whole or powdered, have a strong, camphorated, almost minty aroma and a slightly peppery, lemony flavor. It is used in well-known spice blends such as curry and garam masala.

What is the colour of cardamom?

Cardamom seeds are enclosed in a small capsule that shrinks when dried. The capsules of green cardamom, the most commonly used variety, are green in colour, tending towards grey. The brown cardamom, with a less pronounced and smokier taste, has much larger brown capsules.

What does cardamom smell like?

Green cardamom has a sweet, warm scent with aromas of cocoa and dark chocolate. They have a fruity, floral, spicy, lemony flavor with fresh notes of camphor and menthol.

How to plant cardamom seeds?

Cardamom seeds can be sown from March to June. Create a fairly rich substrate at the bottom of the pot. Choose a mixture of compost (50%), soil (30%) and sand (20%). Remember to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing.

How is the cardamom flower?

In its native habitat, the cardamom flowers - which is very unique in France - in spring or summer, in the form of panicles that can reach 50 cm in length, composed of white flowers marked with purple, 1 to 2 cm long.

How to grow turmeric?

Turmeric can be propagated by division in spring. Cut off sections of rhizomes with at least one bud. Wait for the wounds to dry before planting in sunny soil 3-4 cm deep. The plant may take up to 3 years to flower.

What are the benefits of cardamom?

It has been found to have very beneficial effects on the digestive system. Consumed as a tea, cardamom reduces flatulence and is also a very good antispasmodic.

How to use cardamom seeds?

The best way to do this is to crush the seeds in a mortar and pestle: this will release the precious oils contained in the little heart of each seed. You can then infuse them in liquid or fat (and possibly filter the liquid after infusion).

How to lose weight with cardamom?

1/2 teaspoon cardamom 1 teaspoon honey....

• Boil water.
• Put the cardamom in the boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes, then stop heating.
• After a few minutes, add the tea and honey, let it steep for 3 or 4 minutes and strain.

What can be substituted for cardamom?

How to replace cardamom In baked goods, you can always replace it with other typical baking spices, such as a mixture of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Cardamom is an aromatic plant native to India and Sri Lanka. It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. Its color varies from light green to dark brown, depending on maturity. It gives off a fresh, spicy fragrance, much appreciated in cooking.

To grow this plant at home, you need soil rich in organic matter with good drainage, as it does not like stagnant humidity. It blooms between June and July with highly decorative white or pink flowers.