Cilantro, also known as coriander in some parts of the world, is one herb that has been in use for thousands of years as folk medicine and a culinary ingredient. Both its leaves and seeds are used in many cuisines like Indian, Mexican and Mediterranean. It’s great for seasoning and can be added to curries, soups, stir fries, salads and even cakes and lattes.
Cilantro or Coriander seeds are also an ingredient of garam masala. The seeds are commonly used in whole and powdered form and add a lovely distinct flavor to recipes. It is one of the most popular spices in Indian cooking and can be found without fail in almost all Indian kitchens.
The fresh leaves can be purchased in most herb and grocery stores. You can also plant it in your gardens. Look out for the leaves to be green and fresh when using. It’s a perfect garnish for curries, dips and sandwiches.
Cilantro is aromatic and is known for its antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is said to boost the immune system and also help detoxify the body. It provides essential vitamins and minerals. Traditionally it is also said to aid digestion.
Have you ever tried cilantro chutney? A dip made with a cup of cilantro leaves:
- ½ cup green onions, one thai green chilli
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger, ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt and sugar
All processed together. This is a great spread for your sandwiches and a lovely dip for appetizers.
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*Image courtesy Flickr creative commons.
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Yum..yumm..yummm..I love fresh clintario and everything in which it is used. Vote#2
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Absolutely...thanx for the vote!
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I love cilantro! Voted :)
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me too...thankyou for the vote!
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Voted. Great blog, yep, we call cilantro coriander here in Britain! I like it in curries but do find its flavour a bit overpowering for other uses. Although I do have a sweet recipe where I use the seeds (see my recipe for Citrus Cookies), and they give it an unusual, piquant flavour.
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We call it coriander in India too. The powder is great for curries. You can try using the leaves in sandwiches...they are not that overpowering and very healthy too...and thank you for the vote!
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I adore fresh cilantro, and like most herbs, the health properties are all the more reason to eat them! I voted. I have a new article called Vegan Testimonials. It's touching, inspirational and shocking. Please come read it and vote if you enjoyed it.
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voted! i adore fresh cilantro.
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Cilantro is so versatile. I love its fresh aroma! Voted! Come check out my new piece, and vote if you like it!