Cardamom is an irreplaceable spice originating from India and Indonesia.
Boasting fragrant warmth and herbal aroma, cardamom’s flavor resembles pepper, eucalyptus, and mint altogether.
This unique spice comes from the Elettaria Cardamomum family, and it is used in a variety of food and beverage recipes.
Cardamom in tea converts into a superpower agent with multiple health benefits, plus it elevates your tea experience to a different level.
Cardamom Pods vs. Ground Cardamom
Each cardamom pod has 8-16 seeds. The seeds are the main source of nutrients and flavor thus they are dried and ground before being used as a condiment.
While the pods and the seeds share the same sweet and spicy flavor, ground cardamom has a more intense kick and is more concentrated.
Adding cardamom seeds or pods into a tea is a common practice in the Middle East and India, while this tea culture successfully spreads in the Western world as well.
Ground cardamom is easier to purchase and store as it has already been dried and sealed.
However, whole cardamom pods with the seeds inside can have a longer shelf life than ground cardamom, especially when stored in a tightly sealed container and kept in a dark dry place.
As soon as the seeds are ground, their essential oils start losing aroma and eventually disappear, therefore, it’s better to use whole cardamom seeds for tea instead.
Cardamom Tea Benefits
Both whole seed and ground cardamom are rich in phytochemicals packed with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The extensive use of cardamom in tea leads to extraordinary health benefits, explored for centuries all across the globe.
Recent studies are indicating that cardamom tea can improve the overall performance of our immune system thanks to its high levels of Calcium, Potassium, Iron, Phosphorus, and Magnesium.
- Ulcer prevention
- Reducing skin tumors
- Improving liver health
- Fights bacteria in the mouth. Prevents gum disease
- Improves heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels
- Lowers blood sugar
- Antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that prevent cell membrane damage
The information presented on this site is provided for information purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice or diagnosis provided by your physician or other medical professionals. Do not use this information to diagnose, treat, or cure any illness or health condition. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your physician or healthcare provider.
Can I Substitute Ground Cardamom With Cardamom Pods?
A teaspoon of ground cardamom equals 8-10 cardamom pods which mean around 100 cardamom seeds.
How Much Cardamom Should I Add to My Tea?
Cardamom has an intensely sweet and spicy taste, so you don’t want to kill the taste of your favorite Oolong or Darjeeling tea, but rather add some exotic hint.
You can add 3-6 pods per cup of tea if you’re opting for a stronger taste or two pods for a slight spiciness.
If adding ground cardamom to your tea, then use 1/6 of a teaspoon for each cup.
How Do You Use Cardamom in Hot Water?
Get a few pods of cardamom, crush them, and add them to a glass of hot water. Leave them overnight and strain them in the morning. Drinking this liquid before your breakfast is known to speed up metabolic functions and promotes weight loss.
The spiciness in cardamom aids fat burn so it’s perfect for people who are struggling with shedding some pounds of their waist.
Can I Drink Cardamom Tea at Night?
Cardamom tea contains melatonin which is an active compound that aids insomniacs.
Apart from fixing sleep difficulties and relaxing the body, cardamom tea also increases the metabolic process while you sleep, so a cup before bed would work wonders for your figure.
Can I Add Cardamom to Any Tea?
Pure cardamom is caffeine-free herbal tea, so you can add it to any tea of your preference
It goes well with Green and Black tea varieties, so basically, there are no limitations to its use. Mix it with any true or herbal tea whenever you’re craving natural spicy sweetness.
Cardamom Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3-6 cardamom pods
- 5 cloves
- 1 slice of ginger
- 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea
Preparation:
- Add the spices to a pot of water (1 cup) and bring to a boil.
- Remove the pot from the heat and add the loose leaf tea.
- Simmer for a minute and let it steep for 5-6 minutes.
- Strain and serve in a cup with a lemon slice.
Final Word
Cardamom tea has a sweet and spicy flavor and a plethora of medicinal properties which is why it has been consumed for centuries.
Whether whole pods or ground, you can add this spectacular spice to your favorite Green or Black tea while promoting good health and exceptional figure.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
Itsnevernotteatime.com cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.