In the world of spices, few can rival the unique and captivating flavor of cardamom. This aromatic spice has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, adding a distinct sweetness and warmth to a wide range of dishes. From sweet treats like cookies and cakes to savory meals like curries and stews, cardamom is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any recipe. In this article, we’ll explore 18 exquisite cardamom recipes that showcase the spice’s incredible flavor and aroma. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Cardamom-Spiced Chai Latte
Cardamom-Spiced Chai Latte Recipe
This Cardamom-Spiced Chai Latte recipe combines the warmth of black tea with the aromatic sweetness of cardamom, topped off with a creamy layer of milk. Perfect for a cozy morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Honey or sugar (optional)
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the loose-leaf tea and ground cardamom. Reduce heat and simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the tea has steeped to your liking.
3. Strain the tea into a large mug.
4. Add milk to taste. You can adjust the ratio of tea to milk to suit your preference.
5. If desired, add honey or sugar to sweeten.
6. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and aromatic Cardamom-Spiced Chai Latte!
Cardamom-Infused Rice Pudding
This creamy pudding is a perfect blend of Indian and Western flavors, with the warm aroma of cardamom adding an unique twist. This dessert is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably leftover)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Raisins or nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, cardamom, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
5. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with raisins or nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cardamom and Orange Shortbread Cookies
These shortbread cookies combine the warmth of cardamom with the brightness of orange zest, creating a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add cardamom and orange zest; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour mixture to the wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cardamom-Scented Chicken Curry
This aromatic curry combines the warm, comforting flavors of cardamom and chicken for a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cardamom, turmeric, chili powder (if using), and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add tomatoes, broth, and cilantro leaves. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cardamom and Cinnamon French Toast
This aromatic breakfast treat combines the warm spices of cardamom and cinnamon to create a delightful twist on classic French toast. Perfect for a cozy morning or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add melted butter, cardamom, and cinnamon to the egg mixture; whisk until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Cook French toast for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cardamom-Spiced Apple Pie
This pie combines the warm, aromatic spices of cardamom with the classic sweetness of apples, creating a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cardamom, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add granulated sugar, apples, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Mix until just combined.
5. Roll out half of the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and top with remaining dough.
6. Crimp edges and cut a few slits in the top crust.
7. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cardamom and Pistachio Baklava
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of India and the Middle East with this innovative take on traditional baklava. This sweet and savory pastry combines the sweetness of honey and the crunch of pistachios with the unique warmth of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together pistachios, cardamom, sugar, and salt.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the pistachio mixture, finishing with a layer of phyllo on top.
5. Drizzle honey over the top layer of phyllo.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cardamom-Infused Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this unique recipe that combines the warmth of cardamom with the sweetness of honey, all wrapped up in a glazed carrot package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, cardamom, and orange juice.
3. Add the carrot pieces to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cardamom and Vanilla Panna Cotta
This unique dessert combines the warm, aromatic flavors of cardamom with the classic sweetness of vanilla panna cotta. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unflavored gelatin
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, salt, cardamom, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove the mixture from the heat and add the bloomed gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cardamom-Spiced Hot Chocolate
Warm up with a unique twist on traditional hot chocolate, infused with the aromatic flavor of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, cardamom, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your Cardamom-Spiced Hot Chocolate, perfect for a cozy evening or a special treat any time of day!
Cardamom and Coconut Milk Ice Cream
Experience the exotic flavors of India with this creamy and aromatic ice cream recipe, featuring cardamom and coconut milk. Perfect for warm weather or as a unique dessert for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 tsp kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, ground cardamom, and coconut milk. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cardamom-Scented Lamb Stew
Experience the warm spices of India with this aromatic stew, featuring tender lamb and the sweet essence of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups lamb or beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove lamb and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and cardamom. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are softened and lightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Return lamb to pot and bring to a boil.
4. Simmer stew, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Cardamom and Ginger Tea Cake
Warm up with the inviting aroma of Cardamom and Ginger Tea Cake!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cardamom, ginger, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter until light. Beat in egg and milk.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cardamom-Infused Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your mashed sweet potatoes with the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, butter, and heavy cream or whole milk.
3. Add the ground cardamom and mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cardamom and Almond Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats are packed with protein-rich almonds, cardamom’s natural sweetness, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout recharge.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup cardamom powder
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats and almonds.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together cardamom powder, honey, and coconut oil until well combined.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Roll into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: None! These energy bites are ready to eat straight from the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Cardamom and Almond Energy Bites!
Cardamom-Spiced Pumpkin Soup
Warm up with this exotic and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the aromatic warmth of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable 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 an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add pumpkin and broth to the pot. 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 and puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness and creaminess.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cardamom and Rosewater Rice Pilaf
This aromatic pilaf is a perfect accompaniment to any Indian-inspired meal. The combination of cardamom, rosewater, and saffron adds a unique and alluring flavor profile that will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the cardamom and saffron mixture; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the rice is lightly toasted.
4. Add the water, rosewater, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cardamom-Scented Chocolate Truffles
Transform your taste buds with the unique fusion of cardamom and rich chocolate. These bite-sized treats are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Stir in confectioners’ sugar, cardamom, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Whisk in heavy cream and salt until smooth.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow mixture to set.
6. Use a melon baller or spoon to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
7. Roll each truffle between your hands to shape and coat with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these 18 exquisite cardamom recipes! From sweet treats like Cardamom-Spiced Chai Latte, Cardamom-Infused Rice Pudding, and Cardamom and Orange Shortbread Cookies, to savory dishes such as Cardamom-Scented Chicken Curry, Cardamom-Spiced Apple Pie, and Cardamom-Scented Lamb Stew, these recipes showcase the versatility of this aromatic spice. Whether you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting or sweet and indulgent, there’s a cardamom recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
