Duo of Cardamom Powder

Cardamom is an aromatic spice made from the seeds of plants from the Elettaria and Amomum genera, part of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae).

Among its most popular varieties are:

• Green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum): sweet, fresh, and lemony, used in both savoury and sweet dishes.

• Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum): stronger and smokier, ideal for stews and slow-cooked meals.

Native to South Asia, cardamom has been cultivated since ancient times in India and Sri Lanka, where it remains a key spice in Ayurvedic medicine.

Today it is also grown in Nepal, Bhutan, Indonesia, and Guatemala, one of the world’s leading producers.

Beyond its refined aroma, cardamom is also valued for its natural benefits:

• Aids digestion and relieves bloating.

• Rich in antioxidants, helping reduce oxidative stress.

• Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, supporting oral and respiratory health.

Cambodian cardamom varieties

In Cambodia, wild varieties grow naturally in the Cardamom mountain range. La Plantation offers two types:

• Wild cardamom, an endemic spice from the Amomum genus.

• Forest cardamom, harvested from preserved tropical forests.

Unlike cultivated cardamom, these wild varieties grow naturally in pristine environments, giving them a unique and intense flavour profile.

How is Cambodian cardamom harvested?

Harvesting is entirely manual, pod by pod, selecting only fruits at full maturity. Foragers spend days in the primary forests of the Cardamoms searching for these rare wild pods.

After collection, the pods are dried in traditional smokehouses to preserve their full essence.
Ground into fine powder, cardamom becomes a versatile, easy-to-use spice for everyday and gourmet recipes.

Cardamom powder reveals bright, complex notes:

• Fresh, lemony, slightly camphor and menthol tones.

• A wild, woody and resinous character, evoking eucalyptus, peppermint and rosewood.

• A warm, sweet base with a hint of bitterness for balance.

More intense than classic green cardamom, it perfumes dishes with elegance without overwhelming them.

The following information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical claims under EU Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. For therapeutic use, consult a healthcare professional.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

Cardamom contains flavonoids and bioactive compounds that help neutralise free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and support inflammation management.

Digestive support

Traditionally known to:

• Stimulate digestion

• Relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion

• Improve appetite

• Contribute to intestinal comfort

Nervous system

Supports concentration and emotional balance by aiding proper nervous system function.

Respiratory health

Used in traditional practices to ease cough, freshen breath, and help maintain healthy lungs.

Immune system

Its natural compounds may strengthen immunity and help the body’s natural defences.

Ground cardamom is a versatile spice for sweet and savoury dishes alike.

• Savoury cooking: flavours Indian curries, Moroccan tagines, marinades, white meats, and fish.

• Desserts: adds an oriental touch to cakes, biscuits, gingerbread, fruit compotes, and even hot chocolate.

• Drinks: perfect for flavouring tea, coffee, or herbal infusions.

Recommended dosage

• For 4 servings: ¼ to ½ teaspoon.

• For desserts (custard, yoghurt): a small pinch.

• For drinks (milk, coffee, tea): the tip of a knife.

• Chicken curry

• Fish carpaccio

• Shellfish sauces

• Eggs Benedict with a twist

• Scampi pasta

• Prawn and mango salad (or tofu version)

• Marinated lamb skewers

• Vegetable quiche with cardamom

• Lemon tartlets with cardamom

• Cardamom panna cotta

• Green tea with cardamom

• Pistachio affogato with cardamom

• Crêpes Suzette with cardamom

• Pear crumble with cardamom

Once opened, keep cardamom powder in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Store it in a cool, dry place away from light to preserve its subtle aromas and beneficial properties.
Always reseal carefully after each use to protect its intensity.