If you are looking for an herb that complements everything from fish to ice cream, then you will love cilantro. This versatile herb is the perfect addition to Mexican dishes and is grown mostly in California.
History
Cilantro is believed to be one of the first herbs used by mankind. Some culinary historians believe that it was used as far back as 5000 B.C. Romans spread it throughout the world as they conquered different countries, and it was one of the first herbs to be used in colonial America.
Types
Cilantro is an wide leaves and a pungent taste. The cilantro plant has seeds called coriander, which is another spice. Even though these spices come from the same plant, they do not taste anything alike and cannot be substituted for each other. A reference to "fresh coriander"--meaning the leaves of the cilantro plant--is actually a reference to cilantro.
Function
Cilantro has a strong taste that is a combination of the sharp bite of parsley and the tang of citrus. The leaves should be washed and patted dry before they are used, as they can attract dirt and sand. Cilantro makes a great addition to salsas and dips when crushed, as well as tasting great in asian-inspired salad dressings and chicken recipes. Gourmet ice-cream stores sometimes serve powdered cilantro as a topping on chocolate ice cream, but this flavor is definitely not for everyone, so make sure to test this combination before you cover your entire sundae with this spice.
Features
The cilantro plant has wide, "lacy" leaves that are frilly around the edges and resemble parsley. Many times, people confuse this herb with parsley, but a healthy whiff will let you know if you have found the cilantro. It has a much more pungent aroma than parsley, which does not have much of a smell at all.
Benefits
Cilantro and coriander (cilantro seeds) are natural digestive aids. Not only does the herb stimulate the appetite, but it also helps with the production of gastric juices, making digestion quicker and more efficient. Cilantro can also be used as a fungicide due to its antibacterial properties, is thought to help lower cholesterol and even cures hangovers when combined with violet water.
Warning
Cilantro can cause a severe allergic reaction in some people. They may vomit, break out in hives or have a serious asthma attack, even if they do not have asthma. If you are eating cilantro and your tongue begins to tingle or you feel any other unpleasant sensations, stop immediately, drink some water and contact a doctor if the feeling does not subside. Because cilantro is included in so many recipes, a person who is allergic to cilantro must be very diligent to avoid ingesting this herb.
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