Indian Green Cardamom
Cardamom of
commerce is the dried ripe fruit (capsules of cardamom plant) often referred as
the “Queen of Spices” because of its very pleasant aroma and taste.
Indian cardamom
is offered to the international markets in different grades: 'Alleppey Green
Extra Bold' (AGEB), 'Alleppey Green Bold' (AGB) and 'Alleppey Green Superior'
(AGS) are names that register instant appeal worldwide. Cardamom oil is a
precious ingredient in food preparations, perfumery, health foods medicines and
beverages. India, a traditional exporter of cardamom to the Middle East
countries where it goes mostly into the preparation of 'Gahwa' - a strong
cardamom - coffee concoction without which no day is complete or no hospitality
hearty for an Arab. Indian cardamom enjoys a premium preference in the Middle
East, Japanese and Russians who relish it for its
distinct enriching properties.
Cardamom is
widely used as a flavouring material in whole and ground form. In Asia, it can
add a lingering sparkle to every kind of dishes both traditional and modern. In
Scandinavian countries it is used in baked goods and confectionaries. In Europe
and North America it is an ingredient in curry powder and in some sausages
products. Cardamom oil and oleoresin has applications in flavouring processed
foods, cordials, and liquors and in perfumery and in Ayurvedic medicines.
In India,
Cardamom is mostly grown in Idukki. Idukki, the most pristine and serene
district in Kerala, is specially known for its spices besides its natural
beauty. Idukki spices make Idukki special and thus it is called the “Land of
Spices” in Kerala. Over twelve varieties of spice, including ginger, garlic,
cardamom, vanilla, pepper, cinnamon, coffee, tea, clove, and nutmeg, are
cultivated in Idukki. Idukki’s pleasant climate makes it favorable for spice
plantations. Its agro-climatic conditions are suitable for the cultivation of
plantation crops like tea, coffee, cardamom, pepper and other spices.