What to Do with Extra Cilantro? A Guide to Preservation and Creative Culinary Uses
Don’t let your abundant cilantro harvest go to waste! This guide explores how to effectively preserve your fresh cilantro and unlock its versatile culinary potential, transforming extra leaves into flavorful additions to a wide array of dishes.
The Cilantro Conundrum: More Than Just a Garnish
Cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, is a vibrant herb beloved for its distinctive flavor. However, its delicate nature means it wilts quickly, making excess cilantro a common kitchen dilemma. Understanding how to manage this abundance is key to maximizing its use and minimizing food waste.
Benefits of Properly Storing and Using Cilantro
Proper cilantro management yields several advantages.
- Reduces Food Waste: Prevents perfectly good herbs from ending up in the trash.
- Saves Money: Maximizes the value of your purchase or harvest.
- Enhances Flavor: Provides fresh, vibrant flavor to your meals year-round.
- Promotes Healthy Eating: Encourages the consumption of fresh herbs, adding vitamins and minerals to your diet.
Preservation Methods: Freshness Extended
Several methods can extend cilantro’s lifespan:
- The Water Glass Method:
- Trim the stems.
- Place the cilantro in a glass with about an inch of water, like a bouquet.
- Cover loosely with a plastic bag (a produce bag works well).
- Refrigerate and change the water every couple of days.
- Refrigerating in Damp Paper Towels:
- Gently wash and dry the cilantro.
- Wrap loosely in a damp paper towel.
- Place in a resealable plastic bag or container.
- Refrigerate.
- Freezing Cilantro: (This method is best for cooked applications, as freezing can affect the texture.)
- Chopped & Frozen in Water: Chop the cilantro and pack it into ice cube trays, covering with water. Freeze until solid and then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.
- Cilantro Paste: Blend cilantro with a little water or oil to create a paste. Freeze in small portions.
- Drying Cilantro:
- While dried cilantro loses some of its fresh flavor, it can still be used in dishes.
- Hang upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area or use a dehydrator.
Creative Culinary Uses: Beyond the Garnish
Cilantro isn’t just for garnishing tacos! Explore these flavorful applications:
- Pesto: A vibrant alternative to traditional basil pesto.
- Sauces & Dips: Add a burst of freshness to salsas, chimichurri, and yogurt-based dips.
- Soups & Stews: Stir in fresh cilantro at the end of cooking for a bright, herbaceous finish.
- Salads: Incorporate cilantro into salads for a unique flavor profile.
- Rice Dishes: Mix chopped cilantro into cooked rice for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Marinades: Cilantro brightens up marinades for meats and vegetables.
- Cilantro Lime Dressing: Blend cilantro with lime juice, garlic, and olive oil for a zesty salad dressing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overwatering: Too much water can cause cilantro to rot. Ensure proper drainage.
- Storing Wet Cilantro: Always dry cilantro before storing it to prevent spoilage.
- Freezing Whole Leaves: Freezing whole leaves results in a mushy texture. Chopping or pureeing beforehand is recommended.
- Using Dried Cilantro as a Substitute for Fresh: Dried cilantro has a different flavor profile and is best used in dishes where the fresh flavor isn’t critical.
- Ignoring Root Growth: When using the water glass method, trim any root growth that appears to prevent a muddy taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does cilantro last using the water glass method?
Cilantro stored in a water glass in the refrigerator can typically last for up to two weeks, provided you change the water every couple of days and remove any yellowing or browning leaves. The humidity and temperature of your refrigerator can also affect its longevity.
Is frozen cilantro as good as fresh cilantro?
Frozen cilantro retains its flavor well but can lose some of its texture due to the freezing process. It’s best used in cooked dishes where texture isn’t as crucial, such as soups, sauces, and stews. Don’t expect the same vibrancy in raw applications.
Can I regrow cilantro from cuttings?
Yes, you can regrow cilantro from cuttings! Place cilantro stems with at least one leaf node in a glass of water. Roots should develop within a week or two. Once the roots are an inch or two long, you can transplant the cuttings into soil.
What’s the best way to dry cilantro?
The best way to dry cilantro is to hang bunches upside down in a dark, dry, and well-ventilated area. Alternatively, you can use a dehydrator at a low temperature. Ensure the cilantro is completely dry before storing it in an airtight container.
Does cilantro have any nutritional benefits?
Yes! Cilantro is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. It also contains trace minerals like potassium and manganese. Incorporating cilantro into your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.
Why does cilantro taste like soap to some people?
The soapy taste is due to a genetic variation that affects how individuals perceive the aldehydes in cilantro. For those with this gene, the aldehydes are perceived as unpleasant and soapy. About 4-14% of the population report this.
Can I freeze cilantro in olive oil?
Yes, freezing cilantro in olive oil is a great way to preserve its flavor and texture. Blend the cilantro with olive oil to create a paste and then freeze in ice cube trays or small containers. The oil prevents clumping and freezer burn.
How can I prevent my cilantro from bolting (going to seed)?
Cilantro is prone to bolting in hot weather. To prevent bolting, provide shade during the hottest part of the day, water regularly, and harvest the leaves frequently. You can also grow bolt-resistant varieties of cilantro.
What is the best way to chop cilantro?
A sharp knife is essential. Gather the cilantro into a tight bunch, hold the stems firmly, and chop finely. You can also use a mezzaluna for efficient chopping. Avoid bruising the leaves by using a dull knife.
Can I use cilantro stems?
Yes! Cilantro stems have a similar flavor to the leaves but are slightly more intense. Finely chop the stems and add them to sauces, soups, or stir-fries. They are particularly good for adding flavor to marinades.
How do I store cilantro pesto?
Store cilantro pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To prevent browning, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing the container. You can also freeze cilantro pesto for longer storage.
What are some good dishes to use cilantro in?
Cilantro is a versatile herb that complements a wide range of dishes. It’s a key ingredient in Mexican, Thai, Vietnamese, and Indian cuisine. Try it in tacos, salsas, curries, pho, and guacamole. Its fresh, citrusy flavor enhances many dishes.