Cardamom

Available in whole pod, seed, and ground forms, cardamom is a highly perfumed spice. Especially important in Indian and Arab cuisines, cardamom has both savory and sweet applications. It is a key ingredient in the Indian spice blend called garam masala. In Arab countries, it is also used to flavor coffee, tea, and pastries. A touch of cardamom is great in carrot dishes, in spice rubs for salmon, and in vanilla or chocolate cakes, cookies, and puddings.