Key facts
| Hindi name | Badi elaichi |
|---|---|
| Also called | Kali elaichi |
| Flavour | Smoky, camphor-like and earthy, nothing like green cardamom. |
| Heat | No heat |
| Sold as | Whole pods |
| Stays fresh | Whole: 15 months · check your jars |
| Best substitute | A little smoked paprika plus a green cardamom pod gives a similar effect. |
| Used in | 5 of our blends and 4 of our dishes |
How to use it
Used whole in meat curries, rajma, chole, biryani and garam masala for a smoky depth.
- One pod is enough for a large pot. Crush it lightly and remove before serving.
- Do not swap it one-for-one with green cardamom.
Substitute
A little smoked paprika plus a green cardamom pod gives a similar effect.
Storage
Whole pods keep for over a year.
Black cardamom is dried over open fires, which gives it its smoky flavour.
Pairs well with
Dishes that use black cardamom
Blends with black cardamom
Garam masala (Punjabi style)
North India
The best-known Indian spice mix: warm, aromatic and only mildly hot. Every household has its own version; thi…
Biryani masala
Hyderabad and Lucknow
A fragrant blend with more floral spices than garam masala: mace, nutmeg, star anise and rose.
Kashmiri masala (ver style)
Kashmir
Kashmiri Pandit cooking relies on fennel, dry ginger and Kashmiri chilli rather than onion and garlic.
Frequently asked questions
What is black cardamom called in Hindi?
Badi elaichi. Also known as Kali elaichi.
What can I use instead of black cardamom?
A little smoked paprika plus a green cardamom pod gives a similar effect.
How long does black cardamom keep?
Whole pods keep for over a year.
Tips from travellers
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