Do you have a packet of cardamom pods or a jar of cardamom seeds gathering dust at the back of your cupboard because you simply have no idea what to do with them? Then this is the post for you. Cardamom may be a very intense flavor, but it pairs surprisingly well with many ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. So, if you’re wanting to cook something with cardamom but don’t know where to start, then here are seven cardamom pairings to think about. 

• Cardamom and Cinnamon 

If you’ve ever enjoyed a traditional cup of chai tea, then you’ll know that cinnamon and cardamom are two close friends. Why not try a twist on the classic cinnamon roll, or simply add a cardamom pod or two to a recipe if it calls for cinnamon for an additional layer of flavor.

• Cardamom and Coffee

Cardamom coffee is a favorite in the Middle East. Ground cardamom seeds or a crushed cardamom pod are brewed with coffee beans to produce a fragrant version of your usual caffeinated drink. Give it a try for a twist on your next coffee. 

• Cardamom and Cream

Although thick whipped cream is a delightful addition to any dessert all in itself, for a sophisticated and fragrant twist, try adding a little cardamom. Simply add ½ a teaspoon of ground cardamom seeds to one cup of heavy whipping cream, add sugar to taste, and whip together.

• Cardamom and Plums

Although most people see cardamom as a savory spice, it pairs exceptionally well with a number of sweet fruits, especially plums, apples, and apricots. Try adding a cardamom pod or two to your fruit as it stews, or for a stronger flavor, mix in ½ a teaspoon of ground cardamom seeds.

• Cardamom and Almonds

Almond and cardamom may not be two ingredients that you imagine pair well together, but they most certainly do! Whether you’re adding flaked almonds to a granola recipe, or are looking for an exotic twist for your almond cookies, then add in a little ground cardamom for an additional boost of flavor.

• Cardamom and Carrots

The sweet flavor of carrot pairs surprisingly well with the floral tones of cardamom to produce a flavor pairing that can elevate even the simplest carrot dish. Whether you’re roasting carrots as a side dish or are using them in a carrot cake, add some cardamom to the dish to take it to the next level.

• Cardamom and Citrus

Last but by no means least, if you have some oranges or lemons lying around, then you have yourself a flavor pairing match made in heaven. The acidic notes of citrus fruits like oranges and lemons really help to elevate the flavor profile of cardamom and stand up well to its pungent flavor. Try adding cardamom to your next citrus pudding, or for a quick alcohol-free cocktail, try a cardamom lemonade!

So there you have it - seven everyday ingredients that pair perfectly with cardamom. We have to admit, we too were surprised how many of them began with the letter ‘C,’ what a coincidence!