Cardamom pods are small, triangular spices with a hard, pale green outer shell. Inside each pod, you’ll find a number of tiny black seeds. These seeds are packed with intense, slightly sweet and fragrant flavor often described as a blend of mint, citrus, and spices. The pods themselves are also aromatic, albeit less pungent than the seeds within. These two parts can be used together or separately in cooking.

Originally from India, cardamom is often used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian cuisines. Its unique flavor enhances savory and sweet dishes, making it a versatile spice in a variety of recipes. It's a key element in dishes like curry, biryani, and masala chai, as well as in desserts like pastries, cakes, and puddings.

Regarding usage, cardamom pods can be used whole or ground into powder. When using whole pods, they are typically bruised or crushed slightly to release their flavor before adding them to the dish. If the recipe calls for ground cardamom, it's often recommended to grind the seeds yourself for maximum freshness and flavor, as pre-ground cardamom can lose its potency fairly quickly.

Beside its culinary uses, cardamom also has several potential health benefits given its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It may also help with digestive problems, including ulcers.

Cardamom pods are typically found in the spice aisle of a grocery store. They may also be found in the international foods section, particularly the Indian or Asian subsections. If you can't find them, asking a store associate for help or checking a specialty or health food store may be beneficial.