Herbs and Spices Untitled Document

Coriander
(also known as Cilantro in the US)

Koriander

Plant Description

Herb: Coriander, (Coriandrum sativum) is an annual herb in the family Apiaceae. The name 'coriander' in a culinary context may refer to either the seeds of the plant (used as a spice), or to its leaves (used as a herb); however, in North American countries, for example, the name Cilantro is given to the leaves. Coriander is native to southwestern Asia and west to north Africa.

Season:
Coriander doesn't really have a season when it is best to purchase. It is available here all year. It can of course can be planted here and grown successfully, harvest time from early June to late October (first frost), depending upon when you planted the seedlings.

Uses in Cooking:

This popular herb imparts a mild, delicate sweet flavor. A must for authentic Mexican salsas. It is also used extensively in Chinese, Asian, Mediterranean and Indian cooking. Coriander has in the past few years become the most popular herb sold today.

Possible Substitutes:

Coriander Seeds

How it comes:

Spice Mixes

Coriander is available fresh in many Asian markets here. It is usually sold fresh with the roots still attached. In Asian, Mediterranean and Indian cooking it is also used in a dried powdered form.

Other Uses:

Coriander is also made into a tea in Iran for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia.