What can I substitute for ground cardamom?
Running low on ground cardamom? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About ground cardamom
Ground cardamom is a finely milled spice derived from the dried seed pods of the Elettaria cardamomum plant, native to South Asia. It delivers a complex, aromatic flavour with floral, citrus, and slightly minty notes, making it prized in both sweet and savoury cooking. It is a cornerstone spice in Scandinavian baking, Middle Eastern cuisine, and Indian chai.
Best substitute
green cardamom pods (freshly ground)
Whole green cardamom pods, when cracked open and the seeds ground fine, deliver the freshest and most authentic cardamom flavour. Remove the outer husk before grinding the seeds in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
Use ¾ tsp freshly ground seeds for every 1 tsp ground cardamom
bakingspice blendschaisavoury dishes
Alternative
allspice
Allspice shares some of cardamom's warm, complex aromatic qualities with hints of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg, making it a reasonable stand-in in baked goods and spiced drinks. It lacks the floral and citrus notes of cardamom but provides a similar warming depth.
Use ½ tsp for every 1 tsp ground cardamom
bakingspiced drinksmeat dishesNot suitable for: Scandinavian pastriesNot suitable for: chai
Alternative
mixed spice blend (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves)
A blend of equal parts ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a small pinch of cloves can approximate the warm, complex character of cardamom in baked goods. This blend lacks the distinctive floral quality but provides complementary warmth and spice.
What is ground cardamom called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | ground cardamom |
| IN | elaichi powder |
| United Kingdom | ground cardamom |
| United States | ground cardamom |
Common names for ground cardamom
cardamom powdergreen cardamom powderelaichi powder