Cardamom
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This is an Eastern spice that comes encased in its own sun-dried pods, which are pale green or grey. Inside there is a treasure of tiny black, highly aromatic seeds.
This is an important spice in curries, but it also turns up in sweet dishes – I once tasted a cardamom cake in which the flavour of the cardamom had permeated and mingled with the sweetness beautifully.
I almost always throw in the pods as well to get every bit of flavour.
Serves 1Sauteed Spiced Vegetables with Lentils
A simple and cheap vegetarian recipe for one that's certainly full of flavour! Adapt it to suit other vegetables if you prefer and serve it with filling and nutritious brown rice.
Serves 4Sri Lankan Curry with Coconut Sambal
This is one of Delia's favourite curries - it uses lamb and fresh coconut which adds a vibrant freshness to the finished dish. Highly recommended!
Serves 6Spiced Lamb Curry with Chickpeas, Green Coconut Sambal and Tomato-and-Red-Onion Pickle
There is, I have to admit, some work involved in this one, but I absolutely promise the depth and flavour of fresh coconut is really worth that bit of extra time.
Serves 4Thai Creamed Coconut Chicken
The very good news about this brilliant recipe for busy people is that it's made with ready-cooked chicken. You can, of course, cook the chicken yourself, but either way, it's a quick but excellent supper party dish for four people, and extra special
Serves 6Curried Parsnip and Apple Soup with Parsnip Crisps
This is such a lovely soup. The sweetness of the parsnips is sharpened by the presence of the apple, and the subtle flavour of the spices comes through beautifully.
