What is Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)?
Coriander, also known as cilantro or Chinese parsley, is an aromatic herb in the Apiaceae family. It has a warm, spicy-sweet flavor with a citrus undertone. The spice is most commonly used in its dried seed form, which is derived from the fruits of the coriander plant. Coriander is used to season a variety of foods, such as curry, salsa, pickles, soups, and stews, as well as many Middle Eastern and Latin American dishes. The plant’s leaves and stems can also be used in salads and as garnishes. Coriander seed powder is a common ingredient in many spice mixtures, such as garam masala and baharat.
What does Coriander taste like?
Coriander has a unique flavour, combining sweet, citrus and earthy notes. The seeds have a lemony citrus flavour when used whole, giving an extra depth of flavour to dishes. When it is ground to a powder, it gives a nutty, light and delicate aromatic quality with a hint of citrus undertones. Generally, many find that the flavour of coriander is best enhanced when cooked rather than fresh. In addition, its sweet and light flavour ensures it is a popular spice and a great addition to many savory dishes to give a unique, extra depth to the meal.
What dishes do you find Coriander in?
Coriander is an essential ingredient to many famous dishes from around the world. Most notably of these is Mexican cuisine, which uses it to flavor tacos, burritos, fajitas, and other popular dishes. It is also used to add depth to Thai curries, where it is often combined with ginger and cut chillis. Moroccan tagine uses the spicy flavor of Coriander to add a unique and distinctive character to this slow-cooked stew. Coriander is also used in popular Middle Eastern fare, combined with cumin, garlic and parsley to produce a flavorful shawarma blend. In India, it is used to season dishes like korma, biryani, and many vegetable sautes.