Cardamom is held in such high esteem in terms of aromatic and culinary
value that it is affectionately referred to as the queen of spices. Both
pod and seed contain a long list of volatile oils, many of which are
antioxidants. Cardamom pods are also an exceptional source of vitamins
and trace minerals. For each 100 grams, cardamom supplies 35% of the
daily recommended allowance of vitamin C, 57% of magnesium, 68% of zinc
and a whopping 175% of iron.
In addition to adding flavor to Indian curries, bean and rice dishes and
tea and coffee blends, cardamom pods are used to create sweet treats.
For instance, in India and Pakistan, cardamom combines with pistachio
and raisins in a popular rice pudding called Elaichi kheer. Pistachio
and cardamom also team up in Indian ice cream, also known as kulfi.
