When the pods are used whole in cooking it is best to leave them to rest in the food for a while to get the best flavour. Pods can also be split and the seeds inside used whole or ground. A popular use for cardamon in India is boiled up with coffee to impart its wonderful aroma and taste. 'Chai' is also very popular in India, which made by boiling milk water and spices with lots of sugar and then finally throwing in a handful of black tea powder. See recipes.