The Forktionary Angle

"The queen of spices, providing an unparalleled aromatic lift to both sweet and savory dishes, from curries to coffee."

Definition

Small, aromatic seeds from green cardamom pods, prized for their complex, warm, citrusy, and slightly camphoraceous flavor.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent, Sweet, Citrusy, Floral, Minty, Camphoraceous

TextureGritty (ground), Chewy (whole)

AromaIntense, Aromatic, Sweet, Lemony

AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Essential Oil Content

2-8% (cineole, terpinyl acetate)

Global Usage

Key in Indian, Middle Eastern, Nordic cuisines

World's 3rd Most Expensive Spice

After Saffron & Vanilla

Nutrition Facts

Per 2g

Calories311 kcal

Total Fat7 g

Saturated Fat0.7 g

Trans Fat0 g

Cholesterol0 mg

Protein11 g

Total Carbohydrate68 g

Dietary Fiber28 g

Total Sugars0 g

Calcium380 mg

Iron14 mg

Potassium1120 mg

Chef’s Secret

Lightly toast green cardamom pods in a dry pan before extracting seeds and grinding to unlock deeper, more complex aromas.

Substitutions

Best Match

Green Cardamom Pods

1 pod to 6-8 seeds

Ideal for retaining freshness and flavor, grind as needed.

Ground Cardamom

1:1 (but use 0.5:1 for potency)

Convenient, but less potent and fresh than whole seeds/pods.

Nutmeg + Cinnamon

0.5:0.5:1 (Nutmeg:Cinnamon:Original)

Coriander + Cumin

0.5:0.5:1 (Coriander:Cumin:Original)

For a savory, earthy spice profile, not suitable for sweet dishes.

Buying Guide

Buy whole pods whenever possible for maximum freshness. Store in an airtight container away from light and heat. Grind seeds just before use.

Flavor Pairings

Coffee tea curries stews baked goods (buns cakes) rice dishes spice blends.

Green Cardamom Seeds

Sourcing & Taxonomy