South Asia

Green Cardamom

Elettaria cardamomum.

Dried seed pod.

Part Used

Whole pods, seeds ground as needed.

Form

Elaichi / hari elaichi (Hindi).

India (Kerala, Karnataka), Sri Lanka.

Sweet, floral, eucalyptus-like, intensely aromatic.

One of the most versatile South Asian spices, used in both sweet and savory contexts.

Chai; biryani; kheer (rice pudding); garam masala.

Cinnamon, clove, saffron, milk.

Lightly crush whole pods and add early to infuse a dish or tea gradually.

Whole pods keep 2+ years sealed and dark; pre-ground cardamom loses aroma within weeks.

Black cardamom is not a substitute – the flavors are quite different (smoky vs. sweet-floral).

Ranks among the world's most expensive spices by weight, alongside saffron and vanilla.

Garam masala; chai masala; biryani masala.