Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a mixing bowl, blend the butter and shortening until creamy. Add in the brown sugar, baking soda, cardamom, and cinnamon.
Add the molasses and egg, and once that's combined, slowly mix in the flour.
Using a teaspoon scoop or spoon, shape dough into small balls and roll in the cardamom and sugar.
Bake cookies for about 10 minutes or until edges are set and tops are slightly cracked. They will be pillowy--if too much so, flatten the next batch with a spatula or glass, if you wish.