Black cardamom

Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) is a dark, intensely aromatic spice from the Indian foothills of the Himalayas. Unlike green cardamom, it has larger pods with a rough dark-brown skin and a characteristic smoky aroma that develops from drying over open fire. Its flavor is markedly less sweet, more earthy and resinous with mild minty notes. Traditionally indispensable in Indian meat curries, biryanis, garam masala blends, and Chinese mala cuisine. The whole pods are added during cooking and removed before serving.