Cardamom

At Hillview Plantation, we bring you the finest cardamom, grown with care in our lush, natural environment. Known for its sweet and spicy aroma, our cardamom adds a rich flavor to your tea, curries, and desserts, making every dish special. Naturally grown and handpicked, our cardamom is processed in small batches to preserve its freshness and bold taste.

When you choose Hillview Plantation, you’re choosing pure, flavorful spices that not only enhance your cooking but also support sustainable farming practices. Discover the magic of nature’s best with our premium cardamom.

Kerala Green Cardamom: The Queen of Spices
Kerala green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) is often referred to as the “Queen of Spices” due to its superior quality, distinct aroma, and rich flavor. This spice, native to the Western Ghats of Southern India, especially Kerala, is a coveted ingredient in both culinary and medicinal practices worldwide.

Origins and Cultivation
Kerala’s climate and soil provide the perfect environment for cultivating green cardamom, making it one of the top producers of this spice globally. The cardamom plants thrive in the tropical, humid climate and require well-drained soils rich in organic matter. The cultivation process is labor-intensive, involving careful planting, nurturing, and harvesting. Cardamom seeds are usually harvested just before they fully ripen to ensure the best quality.
The spice has a long history in the region, dating back to ancient times when it was a valuable commodity traded extensively across Asia and the Middle East. Its importance in trade routes and culinary traditions is well documented, showing its enduring appeal and value.

Culinary Uses
Kerala green cardamom is known for its unique, aromatic flavor, which is sweet and slightly spicy with hints of floral and citrus notes. Its versatility makes it an essential ingredient in various cuisines:
1.Indian Cuisine: In Indian cooking, green cardamom is a staple spice. It is used in a variety of dishes, from savory curries and rice preparations like biryani to sweet desserts like kheer, gulab jamun, and payasam.
2.Beverages: Cardamom is a popular addition to beverages. It is used to flavor traditional Indian masala chai, enhancing the tea’s warmth and complexity. It is also used in coffee, especially in Middle Eastern and Turkish coffee traditions.
3.Baking and Desserts: The sweet and aromatic properties of cardamom make it a popular spice in baking. It is used in cakes, cookies, bread, and pastries, adding a distinctive flavor. Scandinavian and Middle Eastern desserts often feature cardamom prominently.
4.Savoury Dishes: In addition to sweets, cardamom is used in savory dishes worldwide. It is part of spice blends like garam masala and is used to flavor meats, stews, and rice dishes.

Health Benefits
Kerala green cardamom is not just a culinary delight but also offers numerous health benefits:
1.Digestive Health: Cardamom is known for its digestive properties. It can help relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas. It is often used as a natural remedy for stomach cramps and other digestive issues.
2.Antioxidant Properties: The spice is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. This can lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
3.Anti-inflammatory Effects: Cardamom has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. This is beneficial for conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
4.Oral Health: The antimicrobial properties of cardamom make it effective in promoting oral health. It is often used in traditional remedies to treat bad breath and prevent dental issues.
5.Respiratory Health: Cardamom is used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory problems. It is believed to help alleviate symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory issues.

Traditional Medicine
In Ayurveda, cardamom is considered a valuable medicinal spice. It is used to balance the doshas and improve overall health. Its warming properties make it effective in treating conditions caused by cold and dampness. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cardamom is used to stimulate appetite and improve digestion.

Cultural Significance
Green cardamom holds cultural significance in Kerala and beyond. It is often used in religious rituals and ceremonies, symbolizing purity and prosperity. The spice is also a part of traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine systems, highlighting its importance beyond just culinary uses.
Kerala green cardamom is a truly remarkable spice with a rich history, diverse culinary applications, and numerous health benefits. Its unique flavor and aroma, coupled with its medicinal properties, make it an essential ingredient in kitchens and pharmacies around the world. Whether used in a hearty curry, a soothing cup of chai, or as a natural remedy, green cardamom continues to be celebrated and cherished globally.