(Elettaria cardamomum) A perennial plant originating in India, cardamom is now also grown in other tropical areas. It is a key ingredient in Indian cooking and chai masala blends, and is used in Turkey brewed with coffee. Cardamom has a strong, unique taste, with an intensely aromatic fragrance. It is used in baking as well as medicinally. It has been used to treat infections in the teeth and gums, to treat throat troubles, and for digestive disorders. It stimulates the appetite and helps with digestive discomfort.

To brew as a tea: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over crushed seeds and infuse 10-15 minutes.

Caffeine Free

Garam Masala
Essential in dishes throughout India, Garam Masala - or "sweet mix" - is used to enhance appetizers, soups, salads, and entrees.

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp cardamom seeds
2 Tbsp cumin seeds
2 Tbsp coriander seeds
2 Tbsp cinnamon chips
2 Tbsp black peppercorns
1 Tbsp whole cloves
1 tsp ground nutmeg

To Make:
Put cardamom, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, peppercorns and cloves in a skillet and toast the spices over medium-high heat for approximately 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Cool.

Using a spice grinder or coffee grinder, grind the spices to a powder. Stir in the nutmeg.

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Please Note: The information given here has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.