Question 1

What can I substitute for cilantro in a recipe?

Accepted Answer

If you're not a fan of cilantro or don't have it on hand, fresh parsley or basil can serve as a good substitute. Keep in mind, the flavors are different but they add an equivalent freshness to the dish.

Question 2

Can I eat the cilantro stems?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Cilantro stems are tender and packed with flavor. You can chop them finely and use them exactly like the leaves.

Question 3

Does cooking cilantro remove its flavor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, adding fresh cilantro too early in the cooking process can dull its distinctive flavor. It’s recommended to add it in the final stages of the recipe to retain its taste and color.

Question 4

I don’t like the taste of cilantro, why is that?

Accepted Answer

Some people are genetically disposed to associate the flavor of cilantro with soap. It's a genetic trait, and if you're one of these people, the dislike is essentially hard-wired.

Question 5

Why is my cilantro turning yellow?

Accepted Answer

Yellowing of cilantro leaves could be due to some reasons such as lack of proper sunlight, overwatering, or nutrient deficiency. If growing at home, ensure cilantro gets 4-5 hours of direct sunlight and well-drained soil.

Question 6

Can I use dried cilantro as a substitute for fresh cilantro?

Accepted Answer

You can use dried cilantro as a substitute for fresh, but keep in mind the flavor will not be as vibrant or pungent as fresh cilantro. Increase the quantity when using dried cilantro.

Question 7

How can I increase the shelf life of fresh cilantro?

Accepted Answer

Store fresh cilantro in a glass of water and cover it loosely with a plastic bag. This prevents it from drying out and will increase its shelf life. Change the water every few days as needed.

Question 8

What cuisines commonly use cilantro?

Accepted Answer

Cilantro is an essential ingredient in many cuisines worldwide including Mexican, Indian, Thai, Chinese and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is used fresh in salsa, guacamole, chutneys, and as a garnish for many dishes.

Question 9

Is there a difference between cilantro and coriander.

Accepted Answer

In the US, Cilantro refers to the fresh leaves of the plant and coriander refers to the seeds. In many other parts of the world, 'coriander' is used to describe both the seeds and the fresh herb.

Question 10

Can eating too much cilantro be harmful?

Accepted Answer

Cilantro is safe to consume in moderate culinary amounts. However, excessively large quantities may lead to some digestive upset as with any herb or spice.

Question 11

Analysis of fresh cilantro

Accepted Answer

Cilantro, often known as fresh coriander in many parts of the world, is a remarkably versatile herb with a distinctive flavour that some adore and others find off-putting. Cilantro is used whole (stems and leaves) in cooking. A common mistake made by many home cooks is overcooking cilantro, which can make it lose its pungent flavor and vibrant color. To get the most out of this ingredient, it should be added towards the end of the cooking process. Washing cilantro properly is another common issue; ensure you wash and dry it completely to remove any dirt and to prevent a muddy taste.

Another tip not so well known is that to bring out the natural oils in cilantro, it can be slightly crushed with a mortar and pestle or gently torn apart using your hands instead of chopping it fine with a knife. This will unlock more of its aromatic flavor.

Question 12

When does fresh cilantro expire?

Accepted Answer

Fresh cilantro tends to wilt and lose its vibrant green color quickly, especially if not stored properly. Usually, it lasts for about 1-2 weeks in the fridge before it starts to wilt or turn yellow. If you choose to freeze your cilantro, it can last up to 2 months, although the texture may change slightly upon defrosting. It's best to use fresh cilantro as soon as possible to ensure it maintains its bright flavor and color.

Question 13

How do you tell if fresh cilantro is bad?

Accepted Answer

It's quite straightforward to tell if fresh cilantro has gone bad. First, you'll notice that the vibrant green leaves start to turn a dull yellow or even a dark slimy green. In addition, the stems may start to wilt or lose their firmness. A sniff test can further confirm this - fresh cilantro has a distinct, bright aroma. If it starts to smell off or has lost its aroma completely, it's a sign that it's past its prime and should be thrown away.

Question 14

Tips for storing fresh cilantro to extend shelf life

Accepted Answer

• Always rinse your cilantro under cool water, pat dry before storing it. This will help remove any dirt or bugs.

• To maintain freshness, store your cilantro in the fridge. Cilantro prefers a humid environment. One popular method is to trim the stems, place the cilantro in a glass of water (like fresh flowers), cover with a loose plastic bag, and then store in the fridge. Replace the water every couple of days.

• If you want to freeze your cilantro for long-term storage, you can chop it up, place it in an ice cube tray with a bit of water, and freeze. Whenever you need some cilantro, just pop out a cube and add it to your cooking!

• Keep cilantro away from fruits like bananas, avocados, and tomatoes, which all emit ethylene gas, a ripening agent that can speed up the wilting process of your cilantro.

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