Cilantro vs Coriander: Are They The Same?

They may have different names in different parts of the world, but cilantro and coriander are two different parts of the same plant. Find out more about these flavorful herbs in this article.

What Is Cilantro?

Cilantro is an annual herb in the family of Apiaceae. It is also known as coriander, Chinese parsley, or Dhania in Hindi. Coriander is native to regions spanning from southern Europe and northern Africa to southwestern Asia.

It is a delicate plant that reaches a height of 50 cm (20 in). At the coriander plant's base, the leaves are extensively lobed; higher up on the blooming stalks, the leaves are slender and feathery.

The flowers are borne in tiny umbels that are asymmetrical, very pale pink or white, and have more petals facing outwards from the umbel's center than toward it. The clusters of tiny white or pink blooms give way to spherical, green fruits that are filled with seeds.

These seeds are called coriander seeds. Both the leaves and seeds of the herb are used in cooking, and they have a distinctively fresh, citrusy flavor that works well in a variety of Indian or Mexican dishes. The fruit is a globular, dry schizocarp 3–5 mm (0.12–0.20 in) in diameter.

Fresh coriander has a characteristic aroma that some people find pleasant and others find soapy or repulsive. The fresh leaves and stems are used in many different cuisines throughout the world.

The leaves can be used whole or chopped and are often used as a garnish. The herb can also be used to make pesto or salsa verde. In Thai cuisine, it is often used in soups, curries, and salads.

Cilantro Vs Coriander

Both Cilantro and coriander come from the same plant, Coriandrum sativum. In the United States, we use the term cilantro to refer to the leaves and stem of the plant, while coriander refers to its dried seeds. But internationally, the terms are reversed, with coriander being used for the leaves and stem, and coriander seeds referring to its dried seeds.

Parsley Vs Cilantro

Let's break it down, shall we? When it comes to parsley vs. cilantro, there are three main areas of difference: appearance, taste, and smell.

• Appearance - Parsley is a small, dark green plant with curly leaves, while cilantro is a brighter green and has more of a feathery appearance.
• Taste - When it comes to taste, parsley is milder than cilantro. It has a slightly grassy taste with a hint of bitterness. Fresh Cilantro, on the other hand, has a strong flavor that some people describe as "soapy."
• Smell - When it comes to smell, fresh parsley has a light, earthy scent, while fresh cilantro can be quite pungent.

What Is Coriander Used For?

Coriander is an incredibly versatile herb that can be used in both fresh and dried forms.

• The leaves, stems, and seeds of the plant can all be eaten, and each has a slightly different flavor.
• Coriander leaves are commonly used as a garnish or added to salads, while the stems are often used in curries or other dishes where they add a subtle flavor.
• The seeds are generally used as a spice, either whole or ground coriander seeds into a powder. Coriander spice is used to make a variety of spice blends, including garam masala and curry powder.
• Coriander can also be used to make tea, and the essential oil of the plant is sometimes used in aromatherapy.

Benefits

In addition to being used as a culinary ingredient, this herb also has a number of health benefits.

• It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium.
• It also contains compounds that can help to protect against diseases like cancer and diabetes.
• It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective natural remedy for a variety of ailments.

How Is Cilantro Grown

Have you ever wondered how your favorite herb, cilantro, is grown? Here's a step-by-step guide: 

• Cilantro is a delicate plant, so it is usually started indoors in trays or pots. 
• Once the seedlings are big enough, they are transplanted outdoors. 
• It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, although it will tolerate some shade. 
• To prevent bolting (going to seed), cilantro should be planted in succession every few weeks throughout the growing season. 
• When harvesting it, cut the stems just above where they branch off to encourage new growth. 
• Be sure to keep an eye out for pests and diseases, as cilantro can be susceptible to both. 
• With a little care and attention, you can enjoy fresh cilantro all summer long!

How To Store

Cilantro is a delicious herb that can add a zesty flavor to any dish. But if you're like me, you often find yourself with more cilantro than you know what to do with. (That's what happens when you buy a big bunch at the farmer's market and then only use a few sprigs!) If you're looking for ways to store them so that it stays fresh for longer, here are a few ideas to try:

• Place it in a glass jar or container with a lid and store it in the refrigerator. The airtight environment will help to keep the herbs fresh.
• Wrap fresh cilantro in a damp paper towel or cloth and place it in a plastic bag before storing it in the refrigerator. This will help to keep the cilantro from drying out.
• Freeze cilantro by chopping it up and storing it in a freezer-safe container. This is a great way to have fresh cilantro on hand for cooking, even when it's not in season.

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Wrap Up: Cilantro vs Coriander

• Cilantro is a versatile and flavorful herb that can be used in many different dishes, such as meat, fish, and rice dishes.
• Both coriander and cilantro are two different parts of the coriander plant, Coriandrum sativum. In the United States, cilantro refers to the leaves and stem of the plant, while coriander refers to its dried seeds. But internationally, the terms are reversed, with coriander being used for the leaves and stem.
• For some people, cilantro tastes like soap and is very unpleasant, while parsley is milder and more universally appealing.
• Coriander seeds are dried seeds that come from the coriander plant and have a slightly grassy taste with a hint of bitterness. They are commonly used as a spice on their own or as part of a spice blend in Indian, Thai, Mexican, and other cuisines.
• It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals and has numerous health benefits.
• If you're looking for a way to add more cilantro to your diet, try brewing a cup of cilantro tea!

Recipe

Cilantro Tea Recipe

Elle

Making cilantro tea is a simple and refreshing way to enjoy the benefits of this versatile herb. Here's a step-by-step guide to brewing your own cilantro tea:

5 from 2 votes

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Prep Time 2 mins

Cook Time 5 mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Calories 0.2 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoon Fresh Cilantro adjust amount as per desired strength

Instructions

 

• Start with fresh cilantro. Add a handful of cilantro leaves to a teapot or teacup.
• Pour boiling water over the cilantro and let it steep for 5 minutes.
• After 5 minutes, remove the cilantro leaves and enjoy your tea!

Notes

This herbal tea is an excellent way to enjoy the benefits of cilantro, which include detoxification, digestion support, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Nutrition

Calories: 0.2kcalCarbohydrates: 0.03gProtein: 0.02gSodium: 0.4mgPotassium: 4mgFiber: 0.02gSugar: 0.01gVitamin A: 54IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 0.01mg

Keyword Cilantro Tea, How to make herbal tea

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