Cilantro

Cilantro is a fragrant, fresh herb with a light, citrusy flavor, often used to garnish salsas, curries, and salads. It pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, and vegetables. Cilantro is not just flavorful but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, offering great health benefits, including detoxifying properties and anti-inflammatory effects.

Packaging: 4 oz Shaker Mason Jar

History: Cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, is a herb that has been used for centuries. It originates from the Mediterranean region and has become a cornerstone of Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, both for its fresh flavor and culinary versatility.

Tasting Notes:
Cilantro has a bright, fresh flavor with citrusy, slightly peppery notes. Its taste can be described as vibrant and herbaceous with a touch of sweetness, making it a refreshing addition to a wide variety of dishes. Some people find its flavor soapy, but for many, it’s a key ingredient in vibrant, flavorful meals.

Aroma:
The aroma of cilantro is fresh, green, and citrusy, with a distinct herbal fragrance that is both invigorating and aromatic. It’s an herb that brings a burst of freshness to any dish, and when freshly chopped, its scent is unmistakable and lively.

Characteristics:
Cilantro refers to the leaves of the Coriandrum sativum plant, which is also known as coriander. The leaves are soft, bright green, and finely serrated. Cilantro has a mild, grassy flavor with citrusy overtones, which makes it a popular addition to both cooked dishes and fresh salsas, salads, and garnishes. The seeds of the same plant are known as coriander seeds, which have a different, slightly sweet and warm flavor.

Perfect Pairings:
Cilantro pairs well with lime, garlic, onions, chili peppers, cumin, and paprika. It is a great complement to tomatoes, avocados, and cucumbers, making it perfect for dishes like guacamole, salsa, and chutneys. Cilantro is also used in Indian, Mexican, Thai, and Middle Eastern cuisines, where it pairs beautifully with meats, seafood, rice, and fresh vegetable dishes.

Substitutions:
If you don’t have cilantro, parsley can be used as a mild substitute, though it lacks the distinctive citrusy flavor of cilantro. For a slightly spicier alternative, you can try fresh mint or basil. Ground coriander seeds can also offer a hint of the same flavor profile, though it will be much milder and earthier than fresh cilantro.

Ideal Uses:
Cilantro is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to salsas, guacamole, salads, and rice dishes. It’s also essential in curry and stew recipes, as well as in marinades and dressings. Cilantro is commonly used as a garnish on tacos, soups, and grilled meats, and it’s a key ingredient in chutneys, smoothies, and even certain beverages like cilantro lemonade.

Processing Method:
Cilantro is typically used fresh, though it can also be found dried or as ground coriander seeds. Fresh cilantro leaves are usually chopped or torn and added to dishes just before serving to preserve their flavor. Dried cilantro is less common and has a less pronounced flavor compared to fresh leaves.

Botanical Name:
Coriandrum sativum – Cilantro is derived from the leaves of the Coriandrum sativum plant, a member of the parsley family. Known for its bright, fresh flavor, cilantro is cultivated worldwide and is especially popular in cuisines from India, the Middle East, and Latin America.