Getting the best from cardamom, whether you use it whole or ground

Cardamom capsules contain essential oils that can relieve stomach problems. – Photo: Jens Schierenbeck/dpa

Cardamom fits in so many dishes, from festive desserts and mulled wine to curries, biscuits and even porridge. The thing to remember when using it that you are usually better off using the pods whole, rather than ground, as this maximizes the aroma.

That delicious smell comes from the small brown seeds contained in the pods, says Sabine Hülsmann, a nutrition expert with a consumer advice centre in Germany.