The warm, sweet, and spicy aroma of cardamom is a sensory delight that can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. This ancient spice has been prized for its unique flavor profile in cuisines around the world, from Indian curries to Scandinavian baked goods. In this article, we’ll explore 20 aromatic cardamom recipes that will transport your taste buds on a journey across cultures and continents.
From sweet treats like Cardamom Spiced Chai Latte and Persian Cardamom Saffron Cake, to savory dishes like Indian Cardamom Chicken Curry and Turkish Cardamom Coffee, the versatility of cardamom is truly remarkable. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on a classic recipe or seeking inspiration for a special occasion, these 20 recipes are sure to delight your senses.
Stay tuned for more as we dive into the world of cardamom cooking and explore the many ways this aromatic spice can add depth, warmth, and excitement to your culinary creations.
Cardamom Spiced Chai Latte
Warm up with a delicious Cardamom Spiced Chai Latte, perfect for any time of day. This fragrant and flavorful drink combines the spices of India with the comfort of a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea or coffee
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the tea or coffee according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat with the sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper. Stir occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Add the brewed tea or coffee to the milk mixture and stir to combine.
4. Pour into mugs and serve immediately. If desired, top with whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Swedish Cardamom Buns
Swedish Cardamom Buns Recipe
These sweet and aromatic buns are a traditional Swedish treat, flavored with ground cardamom and topped with a sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon ground cardamom
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add lukewarm milk, melted butter, and ground cardamom. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Cut into desired shapes (e.g., buns or rolls).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each bun.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cardamom Infused Rice Pudding
A creamy and aromatic dessert perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, ground 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 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh mint leaves (if using).
5. Let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Persian Cardamom Saffron Cake
Persian Cardamom Saffron Cake: A Delicate Blend of East Meets West
This aromatic cake combines the warmth of cardamom and the subtle sweetness of saffron, transporting you to the ancient streets of Persia. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cardamom, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and saffron mixture until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with heavy cream, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Whisk until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cardamom and Orange Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the warm, aromatic flavors of cardamom and the brightness of orange zest, making them a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 1/4 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 flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar 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 on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Indian Cardamom Chicken Curry
This aromatic curry is a perfect blend of spices, with the warm sweetness of cardamom adding depth to tender chicken. Serve with fluffy basmati rice or naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, and cardamom. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cardamom Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this aromatic and sweet recipe that combines the warm spices of cardamom with the richness of honey. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these glazed carrots are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, oil, and cardamom until well combined.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Spread the glazed carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Scandinavian Cardamom Braided Bread
This traditional Scandinavian bread recipe combines the warmth of cardamom with the tender crumb and crispy crust of braided bread. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, this sweet treat is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, salt, and cardamom to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
5. Braid the ropes together, tucking the ends under the loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the top of the bread with melted butter and beaten egg.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cardamom Rosewater Ice Cream
This Indian-inspired ice cream combines the warmth of cardamom with the delicate essence of rosewater, creating a unique and exotic dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon rosewater
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and cardamom. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the rosewater and salt. 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. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (chilling time not included)
Cardamom and Pistachio Baklava
This sweet and nutty baklava combines the warm, aromatic spice of cardamom with the crunch of pistachios, creating a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together pistachios, cardamom, sugar, and salt.
3. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 4 equal pieces.
4. Brush each piece with some of the melted butter.
5. Layer phyllo dough and pistachio mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish, ending with a layer of phyllo.
6. Drizzle honey over the top layer of phyllo.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkish Cardamom Coffee
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of Turkey with this simple and delicious coffee recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong coffee according to your preferred method.
2. Add the ground cardamom and stir well to combine.
3. If desired, add sugar and/or milk to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cardamom Spiced Apple Pie
This recipe combines the warmth of cardamom with the comfort of apple pie, resulting in a unique and delicious dessert. The aromatic spices and sweet apples come together to create a perfect harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and dot with melted butter.
4. Roll out remaining pie crust and use to cover pie. Crimp edges to seal.
5. Brush egg wash over pie crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Middle Eastern Cardamom Date Smoothie
Middle Eastern Cardamom Date Smoothie Recipe
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of dates with the warmth of cardamom, inspired by the flavors of the Middle East. Perfect for a hot summer day or as a pick-me-up any time.
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup cold water
- Ice cubes (optional)
- In a blender, combine dates, honey, and cardamom. Blend until smooth.
- Add Greek yogurt and blend until well combined.
- Add cold water and blend until the desired consistency is reached. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker texture.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, just blend!
Cardamom Vanilla Poached Pears
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and aromatic poaching liquid, featuring the warm, sweet flavors of cardamom and vanilla. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cardamom.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Peel, core, and halve the pears. Place them in the poaching liquid, making sure they’re covered by at least an inch of liquid.
5. Simmer the pears for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove the pears from the poaching liquid and serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cardamom Coconut Milk Rice
This aromatic rice recipe combines the warmth of cardamom with the richness of coconut milk, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite curries or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. 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.
3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
4. Add the ground cardamom and salt; stir well.
5. Stir in the coconut milk until well combined.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cardamom Gingerbread Cookies
Warm up with the spicy aroma of Cardamom Gingerbread Cookies! These chewy treats are perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cardamom, ginger, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cardamom Lemon Blueberry Muffins
Elevate your morning routine with these aromatic and citrusy muffins, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of blueberries. The unique combination of cardamom and lemon creates a delightful harmony that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and cardamom.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cardamom Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm and aromatic bowl of Cardamom Cinnamon Oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of cardamom and the warmth of cinnamon. This unique blend will transport you to a cozy morning moment.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: brown sugar, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
4. Serve hot, topped with your choice of brown sugar, chopped nuts, or dried fruit.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cardamom Black Pepper Beef Stew
This hearty stew combines the warmth of cardamom and black pepper with tender beef, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onions, garlic, cardamom, and black pepper to pot. Cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broth, wine, carrot, and celery to pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to pot, cover, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Cardamom Almond Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and unique breakfast treat – Cardamom Almond Flour Pancakes. This recipe combines the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom with the nutty taste of almond flour, creating a truly special pancake experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Fresh fruit and maple syrup for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, eggs, milk, honey, cardamom, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with fresh fruit and maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Summary
Discover the aromatic flavors of cardamom with these 20 delicious recipes! From sweet treats like Cardamom Spiced Chai Latte and Persian Cardamom Saffron Cake, to savory dishes like Indian Cardamom Chicken Curry and Middle Eastern Cardamom Date Smoothie, this collection has something for everyone. Explore Scandinavian Cardamom Braided Bread and Swedish Cardamom Buns, or indulge in sweet treats like Cardamom Rosewater Ice Cream and Cardamom and Pistachio Baklava. With its unique blend of spices and aromas, cardamom adds depth and complexity to any dish. Get inspired by these flavorful delights and start cooking!
