Cilantro
You may not realize it, but coriander and cilantro come from the same plant. This herb was cultivated more than 3,000 years ago for both medicinal and culinary uses. It has been mentioned in Egyptian writings, as well as, in the Bible. It's botanical name is Coriandrum sativum, other common names are Chinese Parsley and Mexican Parsley. Coriander is an annual herb and can grow well in all areas. It grows up to 15 inches high with white or pinkish flowers that begin blooming in early summer. It is known for it's very aromatic leaves.
Growing Coriander and Cilantro
In mild climates, plant seeds in autumn or early spring every where else. This is a quick growing herb. Be sure to plant coriander away from fennel. The fennel doesn't do as well around it. coriander/cilantro does very well grown indoors in pots. Make sure you give it a good draining soil and full sun. When harvesting the leaves, make sure to only pick them as needed because they don't keep well for long. When seeds turn brown they can be harvested and stored in glass jars.
History of Coriander and Cilantro
The Chinese put coriander into aphrodisiacs and used them as love potions. They also believed it gave them immortality. The Romans mixed coriander with cumin and vinegar and used it as a preservative for their meat. Coriander has also been used by tribes in Central and South America.
Cooking with Coriander and Cilantro
Coriander is the fruit, or seed and is considered a spice. These seeds are used either whole or ground. Coriander is used in curries, pickles, soups, and stews. Cilantro is the Spanish word for coriander and refers to the tender lower leaves. It is considered an herb. It is used fresh because dried cilantro does not have nearly the same scent or flavor. Fresh cilantro is a major ingredient in Mexican and Chinese cooking. Here are some recipes showcasing Coriander and Cilantro.
In mild climates, plant seeds in autumn or early spring every where else. This is a quick growing herb. Be sure to plant coriander away from fennel. The fennel doesn't do as well around it. coriander/cilantro does very well grown indoors in pots. Make sure you give it a good draining soil and full sun. When harvesting the leaves, make sure to only pick them as needed because they don't keep well for long. When seeds turn brown they can be harvested and stored in glass jars.
History of Coriander and Cilantro
The Chinese put coriander into aphrodisiacs and used them as love potions. They also believed it gave them immortality. The Romans mixed coriander with cumin and vinegar and used it as a preservative for their meat. Coriander has also been used by tribes in Central and South America.
Cooking with Coriander and Cilantro
Coriander is the fruit, or seed and is considered a spice. These seeds are used either whole or ground. Coriander is used in curries, pickles, soups, and stews. Cilantro is the Spanish word for coriander and refers to the tender lower leaves. It is considered an herb. It is used fresh because dried cilantro does not have nearly the same scent or flavor. Fresh cilantro is a major ingredient in Mexican and Chinese cooking. Here are some recipes showcasing Coriander and Cilantro.
- http://www.fresheasymeals.com/mexican-chicken-soup.html
- http://www.fresheasymeals.com/carnitas-burritos.html
- http://www.fresheasymeals.com/seared-tuna-with-avocado.html
- http://www.fresheasymeals.com/coconut-ginger-rice.html
- http://www.fresheasymeals.com/pumpkin-soup.html
- Steep cilantro leaves along with mint leaves to make a toner. Apply it to the face to help with acne.
- Make a tea out of the coriander seed to aide in digestion or use as a mild sedative.
- Use to add flavor to medicines.
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