Black Cardamom Pods

Black (actually brownish) pods are not "true" cardamom, but are a bolder and somewhat bitter counsin. Black cardamom has a charm of its own in savory recipes and is perfect for chai mixes. Black cardamom is popular in rice pilafs as well as vegetable and meat curries. Let it be your secret ingredient in rubs and sauces as it is perfect for braised beef. Works well with stronger spices such as black pepper, chili powder, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin and nutmeg.