NAME: Elettariacardamomum L.

FAMILY: Zingiberaceae

ORIGIN: Guatemala

APPEARENCE: the fruit is a green triple oval capsule containing up to 18 dark, hard pepper-sized seeds

TASTE: the taste is reminiscent of mint, citrus, pepper, clove and allspice

HEALING POWERS: rich in iron, magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, promotes digestion, reduces heartburn, stimulates circulation and reduces depression

PART OF PLANT: fruit

PROCESSING METHOD: The fruits are harvested just before ripeness, cleaned and dried in the sun or in a dehydrator

COOKERY:

• traditionally used as a spice in Indian cuisine, in ice cream production, coffee, cakes and similar

CATERING/HOSPITALITY: 

• spice for mulled/spiced wine, cocktails and other beverages
• Arabian coffee is traditionally drunk with cardamom
• complex spice - it is advised not to use it in combination with other complex spices
• it goes well with hot spices like chili and ginger

• dark, dry place at room temperature
• shelf life: 24 months