Cilantro is famously polarizing, some love its bright, citrusy flavor while others perceive it as soapy due to genetic differences in taste perception, but for those who enjoy it, cilantro offers both culinary versatility and traditional wellness uses. This guide covers fifteen ways to use this distinctive herb.
A genetic variation affecting certain smell receptors is responsible for some people perceiving cilantro's aldehyde compounds as soapy rather than citrusy and fresh, explaining the herb's famously divisive reputation.
Add fresh cilantro to salsas and guacamole. Use as a garnish for tacos and curries. Blend into cilantro lime rice. Add to smoothies for a bright, herbal note. Use in homemade chimichurri sauce. Add to soups just before serving. Use cilantro seeds, known as coriander, in spice blends. Brew cilantro tea traditionally used to support digestion. Add to salad dressings for brightness. Use in marinades for grilled meats. Add to homemade pico de gallo. Use as a garnish for soups and stews. Add to fresh spring rolls. Use cilantro-infused oil for finishing dishes. Add to homemade herb butter for a citrusy twist.
Cilantro grows quickly from seed but tends to bolt, or go to seed, rapidly in hot weather, so planting in early spring or fall, and in partial shade during warmer months, helps extend its harvest window.
Cilantro has traditionally been used in various cultures to support digestion after rich meals, and cilantro seeds, known as coriander, have their own separate traditional use as a mild digestive aid.
Store fresh cilantro like a bouquet in a glass of water in the refrigerator, changing the water every few days, which helps it stay fresh for up to two weeks, significantly longer than simply bagging it.
Is cilantro the same as coriander? In many regions, cilantro refers to the leaves while coriander refers to the seeds of the same plant. Why does cilantro taste soapy to some people? A genetic variation in smell perception causes some people to taste soapy notes from compounds that others perceive as fresh and citrusy. Can I substitute parsley for cilantro? Parsley works as a mild substitute in terms of appearance, though the flavor profile is quite different.
Whether you love it or find it polarizing, cilantro remains one of the most widely used herbs across global cuisines, offering bright flavor and a long traditional wellness history for those who enjoy it.
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