Black cardamom is a spice with a strong aroma and a smoky, camphor flavor that pairs well with savory or sweet dishes. Black cardamom is a popular Indian spice, called badi elaichi or kali elaichi, that is used in many of the cuisine's signature dishes. The spice comes from a red stemmed, tall, clustering, evergreen plant with abundant glossy, slim, tropical leaves. Black cardamom is used as a flavoring and cooking spice in both food and drink, and as a medicine.