The sweet, spicy aroma of cardamom is a staple in many cuisines around the world. Whether used as a spice, an herb, or an ingredient in traditional sweets, cardamom adds a unique and alluring flavor to a wide range of dishes. From savory curries and stews to sweet treats like cakes and cookies, cardamom is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any recipe. In this article, we’ll explore the many uses of cardamom in 18 aromatic recipes that will transport your taste buds on a journey around the world.
From classic Indian and Middle Eastern dishes to Scandinavian baked goods and Turkish coffee, cardamom’s unique flavor profile has been prized for centuries. And yet, despite its long history of use, cardamom remains a relatively underutilized ingredient in many Western cuisines. That’s why we’re excited to share these 18 recipes that showcase the best of what cardamom has to offer.
Cardamom-Spiced Chai Latte
Cozy up with this aromatic drink that combines the warmth of chai spices with the sweetness of cardamom. This recipe is a perfect blend of Indian and Western flavors to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond or soy)
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of cinnamon powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the loose-leaf tea and let it steep for 3-4 minutes or until the desired strength is reached.
3. Remove from heat and add ground cardamom, vanilla extract, and honey (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Strain the tea into a large mug. Discard the solids.
5. Add a pinch of cinnamon powder (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Swedish Cardamom Buns
These sweet and spicy buns are a classic Swedish treat, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With the warmth of cardamom and the sweetness of sugar, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add milk, melted butter, and cardamom. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Divide dough into 8-10 pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cardamom and Rosewater Rice Pudding
This creamy rice pudding is infused with the warm, spicy flavor of cardamom and the delicate essence of rosewater, making it a unique and delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, cardamom, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
3. Stir in rosewater and salt. If desired, stir in heavy cream to give the pudding a creamy texture.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Persian Cardamom Saffron Cake
Experience the exotic flavors of Persia with this unique cake recipe, infused with the warmth of cardamom and the subtle luxury of saffron.
Ingredients:
– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cardamom, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, milk, and saffron mixture until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cardamom-Infused Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your vegetable game with this aromatic and sweet carrot recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of cardamom’s warm spices and honey’s sweetness creates a delightful flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, vinegar, cardamom, and salt.
3. Add sliced carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot slices in a single layer.
5. Pour water over the carrots and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Cardamom Chicken Curry
This Indian-inspired chicken curry recipe combines the warmth of cardamom with the comfort of tender chicken, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, coriander, and cardamom; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides.
5. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cardamom and Orange Shortbread Cookies
Cardamom and Orange Shortbread Cookies
Experience the unique fusion of warm spices and bright citrus in these delicate shortbread cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cardamom
– 2 teaspoons orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add ground cardamom, orange zest, and salt; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Turkish Cardamom Coffee
Experience the bold flavors of Turkey with this traditional coffee recipe, infused with the warm, sweet essence of cardamom. This unique brew is perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Turkish coffee grounds
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 cup water
– Sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Grind the Turkish coffee beans into a fine powder.
2. Add the ground cardamom to the coffee powder and mix well.
3. Bring the water to a boil in a small pot or ibrik.
4. Add the coffee-cardamom mixture to the boiling water and stir gently.
5. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the coffee has reached your desired strength.
6. Strain into cups and add sugar to taste (if desired).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cardamom-Spiced Apple Pie
Warm up with a sweet and aromatic twist on the classic apple pie, infused with the unique flavors of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture and dot with melted butter.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust to create a lattice-top crust or use a simple top crust.
6. Brush egg wash over the crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Scandinavian Cardamom Bread
This traditional Scandinavian bread is infused with the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With its tender crumb and sweet aroma, this bread is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm milk (105°F – 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Add sugar, warm milk, and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add ground cardamom and mix until just combined.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
8. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cardamom and Pistachio Ice Cream
Cardamom and Pistachio Ice Cream Recipe
Experience the unique fusion of Indian spices and creamy sweetness with this exotic ice cream recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup shelled pistachios
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and melted butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in ground cardamom and kosher salt. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
4. Stir in pistachios and vanilla extract.
5. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill.
6. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours (including steeping time)
Middle Eastern Cardamom Date Smoothie
Experience the warmth of Middle Eastern flavors with this refreshing smoothie, blending sweet dates, spicy cardamom, and creamy yogurt. Perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon honey
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine dates, cardamom, and honey.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the yogurt and almond milk; blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as desired.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cardamom-Scented Basmati Rice
Elevate your Indian-inspired meals with this aromatic basmati rice infused with the warm, sweet flavor of cardamom. This simple recipe yields a fragrant and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, curries, or as a base for pilafs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the water and cook the rice according to package instructions with an additional 1/4 cup of water.
3. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
4. In a small saucepan, heat the ghee or oil over low heat.
5. Add the ground cardamom and stir for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
6. Pour the cardamom-infused mixture over the cooked rice and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Cardamom and Vanilla Poached Pears
Elevate your dessert game with this aromatic and sweet poaching recipe that combines the warmth of cardamom with the creaminess of vanilla. Perfect for a warm winter evening or as a show-stopping centerpiece for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe but firm pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cardamom. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Add the vanilla bean to the mixture and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Peel the pears and add them to the poaching liquid. Simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain the poaching liquid into a clean bowl, discarding the vanilla bean.
6. Serve the pears warm, drizzled with honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cardamom-Spiced Pumpkin Soup
This aromatic soup combines the comfort of pumpkin with the unique warmth of cardamom, perfect for a chilly fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, cardamom, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pumpkin and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Cardamom Syrup for Cocktails
Elevate your cocktails with the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom. This simple syrup is perfect for mixing into mojitos, spritzers, or other refreshing drinks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2-3 whole green cardamom pods (depending on desired intensity)
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the cardamom pods to the syrup and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the cardamom pods.
5. If using citric acid, stir it in at this point to help preserve the syrup.
6. Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cardamom and Cinnamon Roasted Almonds
Elevate your snack game with this aromatic and crunchy recipe that combines the warmth of cardamom and cinnamon with the richness of roasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cardamom, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Add the almonds to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the almonds are golden brown and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cardamom-Infused Coconut Milk Pudding
A creamy and aromatic dessert that combines the richness of coconut milk with the warm, spicy flavor of cardamom. This pudding is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, cardamom, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and melted butter. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and set.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with toasted coconut flakes or cardamom powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 18 aromatic cardamom recipes! From sweet treats like Swedish Cardamom Buns and Persian Cardamom Saffron Cake, to savory dishes like Indian Cardamom Chicken Curry and Turkish Cardamom Coffee, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find unique desserts like Cardamom-Spiced Apple Pie and Cardamom-Infused Coconut Milk Pudding. For a sweet or savory boost, try making your own Cardamom Syrup for cocktails or Cardamom-Scented Basmati Rice. With cardamom’s warm, spicy flavor, the possibilities are endless!
