Cardamom seed

Cardamom seeds are the small dark seeds found inside cardamom pods, used as a spice. They may be sold in intact pods, removed from the pods, or ground; the seed itself is not the same form as the whole pod. The seeds are used in both sweet and savoury cooking, often crushed or ground shortly before use.

The seeds are tiny, firm, and dark brown to nearly black, with a strongly aromatic flavour that is warm, sweet, and resinous, with fresh, citrus-like notes. Ground seeds are finer and release their aroma readily, while whole seeds are more slowly infused or crushed. Cardamom variety and freshness influence their flavour.