Cardamom, an astonishing spice
The word cardamom refers to both the plant and the spice it produces. This perennial aromatic spice – from the same family as ginger and turmeric – comes in the form of a large root, called a rhizome, and broad leafy stems. When harvested, the fruits look nothing like the cardamom found on our plates! They resemble a large green capsule, which encases the small, intensely fragrant black seeds we know so well.
India, the cradle of cardamom
Cardamom is native to India, and more specifically to the Kerala region and the Malabar Coast, famous for their magnificent, lush rolling landscapes and their endless tea plantations. Thriving at high altitudes and in hot, humid climates, this spice is now also cultivated in other Asian countries, such as Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Cambodia. While this spice seems to have existed since the dawn of time in Indian pharmacopoeia, it was only introduced to Europe later on, where the Greeks and Romans used it to enhance their perfumes and cooking. In the 15th century, the discovery of the Sea Route to India finally enabled Europeans to import spices directly, notably pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and… cardamom.
Aromatic intensity
Hand-harvested before being dried, cardamom seeds release an exceptionally powerful aroma, uniquely warm yet fresh, with delicate lemony notes. They are widely used in Asian cuisine, either whole or ground into powder, particularly in curries and rice dishes. In Europe, they enhance savoury dishes as well as desserts and pastries, not to mention traditional spiced gingerbread!
Cardamom, an ingredient in Kusmi Tea's chai tea.
Indians gladly add a few cardamom seeds to their cup of black tea to impart a subtle citrus aroma. They are also believed to offer numerous benefits: soothing properties that are both balancing and invigorating, anti-inflammatory, and even antispasmodic. Cardamom is a staple ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine, as well as in the famous chai tea blends: it naturally features in the recipe for the brand-new Tchaï of the Tiger by Kusmi Tea, which you can find here. An ideal chai tea for the winter months, perfect for cosy moments as well as lively conversations with friends!