Coriander , scientifically known as Coriandrum sativum , is an aromatic plant belonging to the Apiaceae family, the same family as parsley , dill, and fennel. It is one of the oldest spices known to man, widely used throughout the world for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Native to the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, it has spread over the millennia to different cultures, becoming a fundamental ingredient that is used in numerous culinary traditions, especially in Asian , Latin American, Mediterranean, and African ones.
History of Coriander
Coriander has an ancient history that dates back thousands of years, being one of the first spices used by humanity. Its traces have been found in several ancient civilizations , testifying to the importance it has had over the centuries.
- Ancient Egypt: The earliest evidence of coriander use dates back to around 5,000 years ago, found inside the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs . The Egyptians considered it a sacred plant and its seeds were placed in tombs as an offering to the deceased , as they were believed to have purifying properties and aid the soul in its journey to the afterlife.
- Indian Civilization: In Indian Ayurvedic medicine, coriander has been used since ancient times as a natural remedy for various ailments, especially digestion.
- Chinese Civilization: Traditional Chinese medicine has also recognized the beneficial properties of coriander, using it to stimulate appetite and treat digestive disorders . In China, coriander has been cultivated since ancient times and continues to be an important ingredient in Chinese cuisine and herbal medicine .
- Arrival in the New World: With the discovery of the Americas and European colonial expansion, cilantro arrived in the New World. The Spanish and Portuguese brought cilantro to their colonies in South America and the Caribbean , where it quickly became integrated into local cuisine.
What is the Difference Between Coriander and Parsley
Coriander and parsley are two aromatic herbs that are often confused because of their visual similarity. However, they have very different characteristics, both in terms of appearance, flavor, use in cooking, and their nutritional and beneficial properties .
The most obvious difference is in the shape of the leaves. The leaves of coriander ( Coriandrum sativum ) have rounded, irregular edges, similar to a fan, while the leaves of parsley ( Petroselinum crispum ) are thinner, with serrated edges and have a more pointed shape.
Coriander has a distinctive and intense flavor , with citrus and slightly spicy notes. Some people perceive a flavor reminiscent of lemon , while others find it soapy or metallic due to a genetic predisposition that influences the perception of its aroma . This particular taste makes coriander an herb that is often loved or hated. On the other hand, the flavor of parsley is much more delicate, fresh and slightly herbaceous .
How to Use Coriander in Cooking
Cilantro is an extremely versatile ingredient that is used in many different forms: fresh, dried, seeded, or ground. The fresh leaves are used primarily as a flavoring herb, adding a touch of freshness and a citrusy aroma to dishes. They are also a key ingredient in guacamole , Mexican salsa verde, and Argentine chimichurri.
Coriander seeds have a different flavor than the leaves, with warmer, sweeter, and spicier notes, similar to lemon and pepper. They are widely used both whole and ground in various culinary preparations: They are in fact a key ingredient in many spice blends , such as Indian garam masala , curry powder, and Moroccan ras el hanout . They impart a complex and deep flavor to meat, vegetable, and legume dishes.
When ground, coriander seeds can be used to flavor marinades for chicken, fish or red meat, adding a spicy and slightly citrusy touch . They also pair well with other spices such as cumin , chili pepper and black pepper.
- Indian Cuisine: Coriander is a major ingredient in curries , dal (lentil dishes), chutneys and yogurt-based sauces.
- Mexican Cuisine: The herb is essential in "guacamole", "salsas" (sauces made with tomato, chili pepper and onion), "tacos" and " burritos ". Fresh cilantro is an ingredient that cannot be missing in Mexican cuisine.
- Middle Eastern Cuisine: In dishes like tabbouleh , hummus, and falafel, coriander adds a fresh note that balances the flavors of stronger spices like cumin and paprika .
- Thai and Vietnamese Cuisine: Coriander is used to flavor soups (such as "pho"), curries, noodle dishes, and green papaya salads .
