What to Make with Cilantro? Unleashing its Culinary Potential
Cilantro’s versatility extends far beyond mere garnish; from vibrant salsas and flavorful curries to refreshing chutneys and zesty lime rice, this herb offers a world of culinary possibilities to explore.
The Allure of Cilantro: A Culinary Journey
Cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, is a polarizing herb. Some adore its bright, citrusy flavor, while others perceive it as soapy. Regardless of your genetic predisposition, there’s no denying its prevalence in global cuisine, particularly in Latin American, Indian, and Southeast Asian dishes. Understanding its nuances and mastering its usage can unlock a world of fresh, vibrant flavors.
Beyond the Garnish: Understanding Cilantro’s Roles
While often relegated to a simple garnish, cilantro boasts a complex flavor profile that contributes significantly to a dish. It adds a refreshing coolness that complements spicy flavors, a herbaceous note that enlivens savory dishes, and a bright, citrusy aroma that tantalizes the senses. Using cilantro correctly can elevate a dish from good to exceptional.
Culinary Creations: A World of Possibilities
Cilantro shines in a multitude of culinary applications. Here are just a few examples:
- Salsas and Dips: Think pico de gallo, guacamole, and cilantro-lime crema. Cilantro adds freshness and vibrancy.
- Curries and Stews: In Indian and Thai cuisines, cilantro is often added at the end of cooking to preserve its flavor and aroma.
- Salads: Chopped cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note to green salads, grain salads, and even fruit salads.
- Rice and Grains: Cilantro-lime rice is a classic pairing for Mexican dishes. Cilantro can also be added to quinoa, couscous, and other grains.
- Marinades and Sauces: Cilantro can be blended into marinades for meats and poultry, or used to create flavorful dipping sauces.
- Pesto: Cilantro pesto is a delicious and unexpected alternative to traditional basil pesto.
Preserving Cilantro’s Freshness: Tips and Tricks
Cilantro is a delicate herb that wilts quickly. Here are some tips to keep it fresh for longer:
- Store in water: Trim the stems and place the cilantro in a jar with a few inches of water, like flowers. Cover loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate. Change the water every few days.
- Wrap in damp paper towels: Wrap the cilantro in damp paper towels and store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
- Freeze: Wash and dry the cilantro thoroughly. Chop it and freeze it in ice cube trays with water or oil.
- Dry: While dried cilantro loses some of its flavor, it can still be used in soups and stews.
Cilantro vs. Coriander: Clearing Up the Confusion
The terms cilantro and coriander often cause confusion. Here’s the breakdown:
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Cilantro | The fresh leaves of the coriander plant. Primarily used in Latin American and Asian cuisines. |
| Coriander Seeds | The dried seeds of the coriander plant. Used as a spice in many cuisines. |
| Coriander | In some parts of the world, including the UK, “coriander” refers to both the leaves and the seeds. |
The Cilantro Soap Gene: Why Some People Hate It
Approximately 4-14% of the population has a genetic predisposition to perceiving cilantro as soapy. This is due to a gene (OR6A2) that detects aldehydes, compounds found in both cilantro and soap. While there’s no cure for this genetic trait, experimenting with different cilantro varieties or using it sparingly may help reduce the soapy taste.
Recipe Inspiration: Cilantro-Lime Rice
Here’s a simple recipe for cilantro-lime rice:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, olive oil, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and cilantro.
- Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use cilantro stems?
Yes! Cilantro stems have a similar, although slightly milder, flavor than the leaves. They can be chopped and added to salsas, soups, and stir-fries. Don’t discard them! They add a lot of flavor.
How do I prevent cilantro from turning black after chopping?
Oxidation is the culprit. To slow it down, chop the cilantro just before using it. Adding a squeeze of lemon or lime juice can also help prevent discoloration.
What are some good substitutes for cilantro?
Flat-leaf parsley is the closest substitute in terms of appearance and texture, but the flavor is quite different. Italian parsley can work in a pinch. In Mexican cuisine, epazote can be a good alternative, although its flavor is stronger and more assertive.
Is cilantro good for me?
Yes! Cilantro is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. Some studies suggest that it may also have detoxifying properties.
Can I grow my own cilantro?
Absolutely! Cilantro is relatively easy to grow from seed. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. Be aware that it tends to bolt (go to seed) quickly in hot weather.
What’s the best way to chop cilantro?
The key is to use a sharp knife and avoid bruising the leaves. Gather the cilantro into a tight bunch and chop it finely.
Does cilantro pair well with specific cuisines?
Cilantro is a staple in Mexican, Indian, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Its bright, citrusy flavor complements a wide range of dishes.
Can I use cilantro in desserts?
While not common, cilantro can add a surprising twist to desserts. It pairs well with citrus fruits and can be used in sorbets, ice creams, and even cakes.
What should I do if I accidentally use too much cilantro?
Unfortunately, there’s no easy fix. You can try adding other flavors to balance it out, such as acid (lemon juice or vinegar) or fat (olive oil or avocado). If the cilantro is overpowering, consider diluting the dish with more of the other ingredients.
How do I know if my cilantro is going bad?
Wilting, yellowing, or a slimy texture are all signs that cilantro is going bad. It may also have a foul odor. Discard it if it shows any of these signs.
Can I regrow cilantro from cuttings?
While possible, it’s not always successful. Take cuttings that are at least 4 inches long and place them in water. If roots develop, transplant them into soil. Success depends on the health of the cuttings.
Is it safe to eat cilantro during pregnancy?
Yes, cilantro is generally considered safe to eat during pregnancy in moderate amounts. As with all foods, wash it thoroughly before consuming it.