Out of ground cardamom?

Ground Cardamom substitutes

Ground Cardamom is Ground spice from cardamom pods with warm, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavor.

Use this

Whole Cardamom Pods

Use 1 tsp ground for every 6-8 pods

Different textureBest for curries

The best substitutes for ground cardamom are whole cardamom pods, cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice depending on the dish.

At a glance

Every ground cardamom substitute on one screen. Tap a name for detail.

Ground Cardamom substitutes compared
#	Substitute	Instead of ground cardamom, use	Result
1	Whole Cardamom Pods	1 tsp ground per 6-8 pods	Different texture
2	Cinnamon	Same amount	Different taste
3	Nutmeg	Same amount	Different taste
4	Allspice	Same amount	Close match
5	Cinnamon + Nutmeg	Same amount, (half of each)	Close match
6	Ginger + Cinnamon	Same amount, (half of each)	Different taste

Every ground cardamom substitute

Ranked, with the exact amount and what changes

1. Whole Cardamom Pods
Different texture
Use 1 tsp ground for every 6-8 pods
Whole pods that can be ground or used whole
What changes
Best for
curries, rice dishes, beverages, baking
Same spice, different form - grind before using
2. Cinnamon
Different taste
Use the same amount
Warm, sweet spice with similar warming properties
What changes
Best for
baking, desserts, beverages, sweet dishes
Similar warmth but different flavor profile
3. Nutmeg
Different taste
Use the same amount
Warm, nutty spice with similar aromatic qualities
What changes
Best for
baking, desserts, beverages, savory dishes
Similar warmth but different flavor
4. Allspice
Close match
Use the same amount
Warm spice with complex flavor similar to cardamom
What changes
Best for
baking, curries, beverages, savory dishes
Similar warm, complex flavor
5. Cinnamon + Nutmeg
Close match
Use the same amount (half of each)
Combination that approximates cardamom's complexity
What changes
Best for
baking, desserts, beverages, sweet dishes
Combines warmth and complexity
6. Ginger + Cinnamon
Different taste
Use the same amount (half of each)
Spice combination with similar warming properties
What changes
Best for
curries, beverages, savory dishes, baking
Similar warmth but different flavor profile

Tips for substituting ground cardamom

Cardamom has a strong flavor, so use sparingly
Best when freshly ground from whole pods
Pairs well with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
Common in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian cuisines
Great in both sweet and savory dishes
Store in airtight container away from light

Questions about ground cardamom substitutes

What does cardamom taste like?

Cardamom has a warm, citrusy, slightly sweet flavor with hints of eucalyptus and mint. It's aromatic and complex, often described as floral and spicy.

Can I use whole cardamom pods instead of ground?

Yes, but you'll need to grind them first or use them whole in dishes where they can be removed. About 6-8 pods equal 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom.

Is cardamom the same as allspice?

No, they're different spices. Allspice has a similar warm, complex flavor but comes from a different plant. However, allspice can work as a substitute in many recipes.

How should I store ground cardamom?

Store ground cardamom in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It will keep for about 6 months, but for best flavor, grind whole pods as needed.

Need a different ingredient?

Browse the full index, or the rest of this category.

Browse all substitutes More spices & herbs

At a glance

Every ground cardamom substitute

1. Whole Cardamom Pods

2. Cinnamon

3. Nutmeg

4. Allspice

5. Cinnamon + Nutmeg

6. Ginger + Cinnamon