What is Elaichi Called in English?

Elaichi is a spice that you could have come across if you have ever cooked Indian food, Indian tea or visited an Indian spice shop. It is the most popular and utilised among the most popular spices in Indian kitchens. It is put into sweet, rice foods, teas and even mouth fresheners. But many would want to know what is Elaichi Called in English? In this article, we'll give you a simple and straightforward answer, and some interesting facts about this awesome spice as well.

What is Elaichi Called in English?

Elaichi is called Cardamom in English. Sometimes, this spice “Cardamom” is also written as “Cardamon” in some countries. Its plant is similar to ginger (a spiceous plant). The scientific name of Elaichi (Cardamom) is Elettaria cardamomum.

So, wherever you have heard of any recipe or product using the word ‘Cardamom' is actually it means Elaichi.

Also Read: What is Jeera Called in English?

What are the Different Types of Elaichi (Cardamom)?

In India, there are two prevalent types of elaichi used, which are:

1. Choti Elaichi (Green Cardamom): 

Source: amazon

This is a small elaichi which is green in colour. In English, it is called Green Cardamom. Slightly sweet and fresh fragrance. It is added to teas, sweets like kheer, gulab jamun and in biryani too. This is the most common elaichi that is used in all Indian households.

2. Badi Elaichi (Black cardamom):

Source: greendna

This variety of Elaichi is dark in colour and a bit bigger in the size. The English name of this is Black Cardamom. It has a smoky, strong taste. It is most commonly used for foods like curries and meat dishes.

Where Does Cardamom Come From?

The forests of South India and Sri Lanka are the ULTIMATE origin of Cardamom. Now India has become one of the biggest producers of cardamom in the world. The major states of cardamom production in India are Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Interesting Facts About Elaichi (Cardamom)

Here are some simple and important facts about elaichi:

• Cardamom is the “Queen of Spices” of India. It is because black pepper is known as "King of spices.

• The third most expensive spice in the spice world after vanilla and saffron.

• India is the principal country that produce green cardamom and Kerala is the principal supplier in it.

• More than 4000 years ago, the Indians used cardamom as a spice and in Ayurvedics.

• The elaichi pod contains tiny black seeds which are the source of the flavour and several aromas.

What Are the Common Uses of Cardamom?

Cardamom is used in many ways in daily life:

• For beverages: Masala chai, cardamom coffee and lassi.

• In sweet: Kheer, Halwa, Barfi, Laddoo.

• Main courses: Biryani, Pulao and Meat curries.

Scientific Names of Elaichi

So now you know what Elaichi in English is called: Cardamom. It is one of the most important spices in Indian cooking and culture. Whether you call it elaichi or cardamom, this small spice brings a big flavour to your daily life.