Cilantro adds a jolt of flavor to foods.
Cilantro refers to the leaves of the coriander (Coriandrum sativum) plant, an herb that is also called Chinese parsley. The coriander plant originated in Greece, but many cuisines use cilantro to add spice and flavor to dishes. Cilantro has an intense, distinctive taste sometimes described as a strong anise flavor with lemon, ginger and sage tones.
Dishes With Cilantro
Cilantro is popular as a garnish and ingredient in Latin American, Asian, African, Indian and Mediterranean cooking. Add cilantro to salsa, curry, chutney, relish, guacamole, marinades, stews or soups. Cilantro also adds flavor to bean dishes, sauces and stir-fried dishes. You can also make pesto from cilantro instead of basil.
Matching Flavors
Cilantro complements a range of flavors. For example, according to Savory Sweets, cilantro goes well with several fruits, including watermelon, bananas, cherries, mangoes, lemons, limes, strawberries, raspberries and pineapple. The herb also complements cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, bell peppers, squash and corn. In addition, consider pairing a cilantro-infused dish with tequila or using cilantro with cumin, chilies, peppercorns and curry powder.
Using Cilantro
Cilantro is sold fresh in bunches similar to parsley. Chop fresh cilantro and add to the dish towards the end of the cooking time or just before serving. Cooking cilantro for a longer time or at high temperatures reduces the flavor. Do not use dried cilantro.
Storing Cilantro
Refrigerate fresh cilantro in a sealed plastic bag for three to four days. Do not dry cilantro; the spice loses its flavor when dried. If you need to store cilantro for an extended time, chop the leaves into small pieces, cover them with water and freeze in ice cube trays. Remove the cilantro cubes after freezing and store them in a plastic freezer bag.
Warning
Some people find the smell and taste of cilantro extremely unpleasant. People who dislike cilantro often describe the flavor as soapy. In fact, the herb contains similar aldehydes, or fragmented fat molecules, as soap, lotion and insects. If you aren't sure whether your guests enjoy cilantro, consider asking them before adding the spice. If you dislike the intense notes of cilantro, try a milder cilantro pesto instead of more pungent dishes.
Tags: Cilantro Cilantro, cilantro spice, fresh cilantro