Discovering Cardamom in Altea

# Discovering Cardamom in Altea

Introduction to Cardamom As the owner of Indian Elephant Restaurant in Altea, on the beautiful Costa Blanca, I'm often asked about the spices we use in our dishes. One of my favorites is cardamom, a versatile spice that adds a unique flavor and aroma to both sweet and savory dishes. Cardamom is a member of the ginger family and is native to India, where it's been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking.

Using Cardamom in Cooking In our kitchen, we use cardamom in a variety of ways. We add whole cardamom pods to our curries and stews, where they infuse the dish with a warm, slightly sweet flavor. We also use ground cardamom to add depth and complexity to our rice dishes and desserts. One of our signature dishes, the chicken tikka masala, relies heavily on cardamom for its distinctive flavor. During the summer months, when the tourist season is in full swing, we source our cardamom from a local supplier in the nearby town of Calpe, who imports it directly from India.

Health Benefits of Cardamom Cardamom has been shown to have a number of health benefits, including aiding digestion and freshening breath. It's also rich in antioxidants and has been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, from nausea to respiratory problems. In Altea, where the air is fresh and the scenery is stunning, we like to think that our cardamom-infused dishes are not only delicious, but also good for you. On a warm evening, sitting on the terrace of our restaurant, overlooking the beach at Playa de la Roda, there's no better way to enjoy a cardamom-scented curry than with a cold glass of wine and the sound of the waves crashing in the background.

As the seasons change, and winter brings a cooler breeze to the Costa Blanca, we adapt our menu to include more warming, comforting dishes, often featuring cardamom as a key ingredient. Whether you're a local or just visiting Altea, I invite you to come and experience the unique flavor of cardamom for yourself, in the heart of our beautiful town.

Frequently Asked Questions

### What is cardamom used for in cooking? Cardamom is used to add flavor and aroma to both sweet and savory dishes, including curries, stews, and desserts

### What are the health benefits of cardamom? Cardamom has been shown to aid digestion, freshen breath, and is rich in antioxidants, with traditional uses including treating nausea and respiratory problems

### Where can I find cardamom in Altea? You can find cardamom at local spice suppliers or at the Indian Elephant Restaurant, where we use it in a variety of dishes