A very rich aromatic spice used entirely for flavoring in Indian preparation like pulao, biryani, curries. These are also used for some Indian and Western types of sweets and cakes. The smaller variety with light yellowish pods are generally used. The small black round seeds which grow inside the hush like pods are best purchased whole. A few are to be ground using a mortar and pestle before using it in any preparation for its best exotic taste and aroma. These can be ground in a spice grinder and kept in an air tight container also for using as required.