What exactly do the spices cardamom and coriander taste like?!
Does anyone have an exact description of what they taste like? Has anyone ever used them in desserts before,and if so how did the dish turn out?
Answers:
I've had experience with both. An exact description; not for what you are seeking.
Coriander is more of a 'cumin' taste, yet not so strong. Coriander is part of the cilantro plant, so that should help you on that one. I would not recommend it for a dessert dish.
Cardamon, however, is absolutely lovely. Mind you, though, a little goes a long way! Cardamon is a strong cinnamony, allspice, nutmeg, ginger (can't even explain it) taste. Best thing to do is to is to go to your spice shop or grocer and ask them for a small sample. A small sample is all you will need. I use cardamon in banana pancakes, banana bread, mascerated berries, fruit cobblers or pies, etc... a dessert thing. Actually, apple sauce cake is great with a bit of cardamon in it. Really, a little goes a long way. Just look at the price and you'll know! It is the second most expensive spice on the planet. Desserts with cardamon turn out lovely if you have a light hand for it. Too much is overbearing.
I wish you well.
Green cardamom is a common spice in sweet desserts. If you've ever had an Indian/Pakistani style rice pudding, which is called kheer, it probably had green cardamom and cinnamon in it. Coriander is more often found in savoury foods, but it can also be used in desserts.
Pop over to a grocery store that services an Indian or Pakistani community and get the spices in ground form. Try out the recipe and see if you like it. It'll probably be very fragrant and complex.
Coriander .. in a cake .. NO. It's a 'hot' taste that belongs to 'curries'.
Cardamon .. maybe .. but it's a 'bitter' taste though.
I'd go with Nutmeg or Cinnamon for a cake !!
No one can describe a taste. Just buy some and taste them. Danish and German stollens use cardamom.
Go lick your finger and dab it in some. My favorite eclipse gum has cardamom in it. Its yummy.