Cardamom, the Christmas spice

This source of intense flavor and aroma has arrived from distant places to delight the palates of countless homes. This time of year is perfect for enjoying its flavor and also its health benefits.   Although it is not one of the most known spices in this part of the world, cardamom is starting to become one of the most sought after. We have come to know it for its important role in Asian cuisines such as Indian, as it is used in both savory dishes like curry and in sweets like rice with yogurt or milk. The flavor of these seeds is incomparable to any other; its earthy tones and intense herbal aroma can give another dimension to any dish. Now that the cold is starting and the holidays are approaching, don't hesitate to look for some cardamom and make cookies, tea, and even stews. Just like with saffron and pepper, care should be taken with its use as it adds a very characteristic and strong flavor to dishes. On the healthy side, cardamom is an excellent metabolism booster that helps burn calories and maintain ideal weight. It not only helps in this way, but it is also an intestinal regulator, aiding in better digestion and maximizing the benefits of food. This spice has a series of stimulating effects that can help keep us alert and active without the need for products containing taurine or caffeine. If your journey with cardamom has not yet begun, don't worry; it is very easy to use. Perhaps the easiest way to approach it is through desserts. Try sprinkling vanilla or ginger cookies with a bit of cardamom powder and you will see the difference. It is also a great flavor agent when mixed with dairy ingredients, so adding a bit to a milkshake or even yogurt ice cream can result in an extremely successful experiment. Speaking of savory dishes, it can work both as part of a salad vinaigrette and as a seasoning in meat, chicken, pork, and fish stews. If you enjoy preparing Christmas dinner, then consider this flavor for your next feast, as you will surprise everyone with an exotic aroma that can enchant all. Another idea is to add a little to punch, and you will obtain a drink full of fruity flavor with delicious Eastern touches. Recipes with Cardamom Recipe for Lemon, Yogurt, and Cardamom Cake Ingredients: - oil - 1 piece of lemon peel - 1 cup of natural yogurt - 1 cup of sugar - 3 eggs - 3 cups of flour - 1 packet of baking powder - 2 tablespoons of lemon juice - 2 tablespoons of lemon zest - 1 teaspoon of cardamom for the topping - 1 lime for the topping - 2 cups of powdered sugar for the topping - 4 tablespoons of water for the topping Find the steps to prepare this recipe by clicking here.   Recipe for Carrot Birthday Cake Ingredients: - 2 cups of grated and drained carrot - 4 eggs - 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract - 1 cup of chopped walnuts - 1 cup of vegetable oil - 1 1/2 cups of sugar - 2 cups of flour - 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder - 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon - 1 teaspoon of cardamom or nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon of salt - 750 grams of cream cheese - 450 grams of powdered sugar - 1 zest of orange or tangerine - 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract - 70 grams of softened butter - 100 grams of ground almonds - 100 grams of powdered sugar - 1 egg white - 1/2 teaspoon of green food coloring - 1/2 teaspoon of orange food coloring Click here to see the preparation steps for this recipe.     Do you use cardamom for cooking? Tell us in which recipes.