Cardamom and cloves are two of the most popular spices in the world. They are used in many cuisines to add flavor and aroma to a variety of dishes. But can these two spices be used together?
The answer is yes, and they work very well together. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to use cardamom and cloves together, why they work well together, and provide some food dishes that you can cook with these two spices.
How to use cardamom and clove together
Cardamom and cloves can be used together in a variety of ways. One of the most common ways is to use them in spice blends. You can mix ground cardamom and ground cloves together in equal parts and use this blend to season meats, vegetables, and rice dishes.
Another way to use these spices together is to steep them in hot water to make a fragrant tea. Simply add a few cardamom pods and a couple of cloves to a cup of hot water and let it steep for a few minutes.
Why they work well together
Cardamom and clove work well together because they both have a warm and sweet flavor profile. Cardamom has a slightly floral and citrusy taste, while clove has a strong, sweet, and slightly bitter taste. When these two spices are used together, they create a complex and rich flavor that can enhance the taste of many dishes.
Food dishes that you can cook with cardamom and cloves include:
- Cardamom and clove rice: To make this dish, cook basmati rice and then add a blend of cardamom and clove to it. The spices will infuse into the rice, giving it a fragrant and delicious flavor.
- Spiced tea: As mentioned earlier, you can steep cardamom and clove in hot water to make a fragrant tea. Add some honey and milk to make it more flavorful.
- Indian spice rub: Mix together equal parts of ground cardamom and ground clove, along with other spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Use this blend to season chicken or lamb before roasting or grilling.
- Carrot and cardamom soup: This is a simple and healthy soup that combines the sweetness of carrots with the warmth of cardamom. Add a few cloves for an extra layer of flavor.
Cardamom and cloves comparison
| Property | Cardamom | Cloves |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Small green pods or black seeds | Small, dark, reddish-brown flower buds |
| Flavor | Sweet, slightly citrusy, floral | Strong, sweet, slightly bitter |
| Aroma | Intense, spicy, slightly sweet | Strong, sweet, slightly bitter |
| Culinary uses | Used in sweet and savory dishes | Used in sweet and savory dishes |
| Pairing | Often paired with cinnamon and ginger | Often paired with cinnamon and nutmeg |
| Medicinal uses | Used to aid digestion and freshen breath | Used to alleviate toothaches and coughs |
| Origin | Native to India and Southeast Asia | Native to Indonesia and Madagascar |
| Types | Green, black, and white cardamom | Whole, ground, and essential oil cloves |
Final thoughts
Cardamom and cloves are two spices that work well together and can enhance the flavor of many dishes. Experiment with these spices in your cooking and see what kind of delicious creations you can come up with.