Cedar Hill News

Cilantro or Coriander? Herb or Spice?

Cilantro, or coriander, is a member of the parsley family, sometimes called 'Chinese parsley', and is used extensively in Chinese, Indian and Mexican cooking.

In the USA, the name 'cilantro' is used to describe the leaves of the plant, while 'coriander' is used to refer to the spice produced from the seeds. As the flavors of the leaves and the seeds are vastly different, this name change is quite appropriate.

Cilantro leaves have a unique, musky aroma and a rather pungent flavor, while the coriander seeds possess a pleasing lemon flavor.

When buying cilantro, check for leaves that have a bright green color with no yellow spots, and no evidence of wilting. Fresh cilantro doesn't last long, and you'll need to store it in the refrigerator. One way is to put the cilantro in an air-filled, securely closed plastic bag in the vegetable crisper section. You could also place the cilantro in a cup of water, as you would a bunch of flowers, cover the cup with a plastic bag, and place in the refrigerator. Change the water every two days and the cilantro should last up to two weeks. Wash it thoroughly before using.

Coriander seeds can be dried in the sun or in the oven on a low temperature. Another tip is to dry roast the seeds before grinding them, as this helps bring out their unique fragrance.

Coriander is a hardy annual that will grow well in your herb garden. Plant in loamy soil in direct sunlight at the same time that you would plant parsley.

An interesting way to use cilantro is in a delicious barbecue sauce. Try the recipe!

A Secret Tip from our Kitchens

To store cilantro, place in a cup of water, stems down like a bunch of flowers. Cover the cup with a plastic bag and place in the refrigerator. Change the water every two days and the cilantro should last up to two weeks.

For more recipes, click here »

It's like having a secret garden in your kitchen!