Cardamom 8mm इलायची

What is Kerala Green Cardamom?

Green Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), known as Elakka in Malayalam and Hari Elaichi in Hindi, is called the “Queen of Spices” — second only to saffron in global trade value. Kerala’s Idukki district, the famous Cardamom Hills, is the original home of true green cardamom and remains the world’s gold standard for quality.

Why the 8mm grade matters

Cardamom is sold in several pod sizes (6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 8.5mm+). Larger pods mean more seeds, denser essential-oil content (1,8-cineole, α-terpinyl acetate), and stronger aroma. Our 8mm grade is hand-sorted after natural drying — the pods are firm, bright green, and free from split or discoloured ones. Each kg yields approximately 100 g of pure aromatic seed.

Culinary uses

• Masala chai — 2-3 crushed pods per litre

• Biryani, pulao, korma, Hyderabadi dum — essential whole spice

• Payasam, kheer, lassi, custard, ice cream — ground seeds

• Scandinavian bakery, Middle-Eastern coffee, Indian desserts

• Mulled wine, spiced rum, cocktails

Health benefits

Cardamom is rich in antioxidants (quercetin, kaempferol), manganese, and the volatile oil cineole. Traditionally used in Ayurveda to:

• Freshen breath and aid digestion

• Reduce bloating and acidity after meals

• Support respiratory health

• Act as a natural mouth freshener (classical post-meal chew)

How to store and use

Store whole pods in an airtight glass jar away from heat and sunlight. Pods keep their aroma for 12-18 months; once ground, aroma fades within 3 months. For strongest flavour, crush pods just before use with the flat of a knife, then add whole (seeds + shell) to the dish — the shell infuses, and you can strain or leave it in.

Product details

• Scientific name: Elettaria cardamomum

• Names: Elakka (Malayalam), Hari Elaichi / Chhoti Elaichi / इलायची (Hindi), Elakai (Tamil), Yelakki (Kannada), Elaichi (Telugu)

• Origin: Idukki, Kerala, India

• Grade: 8mm pods, hand-sorted

• Processing: Naturally sun-dried, unfumigated

• Net quantity: 100g

• Diet type: Vegetarian

• Shelf life: 12 months from packing

• Storage: Airtight container, cool dry place

Frequently asked questions

What is cardamom called in Hindi and Malayalam?

In Hindi it is Elaichi or Hari Elaichi (हरी इलायची) for green cardamom. In Malayalam it is Elakka. The large black variety is Badi Elaichi or Kattu Elakka — a different spice.

What is the difference between 7mm, 8mm and 8.5mm cardamom?

Numbers refer to the pod size. Larger pods = more seeds per pod = stronger aroma. 8mm is the premium everyday choice; 8.5mm+ is extra premium for gifting and connoisseurs; 6-7mm is the standard grade for mass cooking.

How many cardamom pods per serving?

For chai: 2-3 crushed pods per litre. For biryani (serves 6): 6-8 whole pods. For payasam (serves 4): 3-4 pods ground.

Can cardamom be eaten raw?

Yes — the seeds inside the pod are traditionally chewed after meals as a natural mouth freshener and digestive aid. 1-2 pods per day is safe.

Why is Kerala cardamom considered the best?

The Cardamom Hills of Idukki offer the exact altitude (600-1,500 m), rainfall and shade-grown conditions the plant evolved for. The bold aroma, bright colour and high essential oil percentage come from this unique terroir — the same way Champagne needs Champagne, cardamom needs Kerala.

How long does green cardamom stay fresh?

Whole pods stay aromatic for 12-18 months in an airtight container. Ground cardamom loses aroma within 3 months.

Is cardamom safe during pregnancy?

Culinary quantities (1-3 pods in food) are generally considered safe. Avoid medicinal doses during pregnancy without consulting a doctor.