Coriander

Description

Coriander is the dried leaves of the herb, Coriandrum sativum, an annual herb of the parsley family. Also known as Chinese parsley, Coriander has a distinctive green, waxy flavour. Coriander is the usual name for the leaf of the plant that is otherwise identified as Cilantro, and from which Coriander Seed is obtained.

Did You Know?

Coriander Leaf is the world's most popular herb. Whilst it is not often found in European cooking, it is used extensively in Asian, Oriental, Middle Eastern and Latin American dishes.

Coriander is mentioned in the Medical Papyrus of Thebes written in 1552 B.C. and is one of the plants that grew in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Ancient Hebrews added Coriander to an herb mixture used in the ritual of Passover. Greek and Roman physicians hailed its medicinal powers.

Origins

Coriander is believed to have been one of the earliest plantings in North America, where the Coriander leaves, rather than the seed, became more popular. Today, it is cultivated in the Mediterranean region of Southern Europe, Mexico and the U.S.

Usage

Add Coriander Leaf to breads, stuffings and sauces and sprinkle over spicy or creamy dishes at the end of cooking.
Mexican salsas make delicious dips and hot or cold sauces. They are excellent as "chutneys" with a cold buffet or used with traditional Mexican dishes. Simply combine chopped tomatoes, onion, Garlic and Crushed Chillies with a tablespoon of Coriander Leaf.
For an Indian raita, stir chopped or grated cucumber, Coriander Leaf, salt and pepper into natural yoghurt.
A Thai style fresh chutney makes an excellent accompaniment to fish. Warm creamed coconut with lemon juice and stir in Coriander Leaf, Crushed Chillies and chopped spring onions.