Cilantro Leaf

Coriandrum sativum Herb, Leafy Green

Cilantro Leaf Herb, Leafy Green

At a Glance

  • Category Herb, Leafy Green

The Forktionary Angle

"A polarizing yet essential herb, cilantro brings a burst of fresh, bright, and complex flavor that can elevate a dish or be entirely avoided, depending on the palate."

Definition

The fresh leaves of the coriander plant, widely used as an herb in Mexican, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines for its distinctive fresh, citrusy, and sometimes soapy flavor.

Best Storage Stems in water, covered loosely in fridge
Genetic Taste Variation OR6A2 gene linked to "soapy" taste
Global Usage (Regions) Latin America, Asia, Middle East

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cilantro Leaf are:

Fresh Citrusy Grassy Pungent sometimes Soapy (genetic)

Chef’s Secret

If you're sensitive to the "soapy" taste of cilantro, lightly toasting the seeds and using them as ground coriander spice can offer a similar aromatic profile without the objectionable notes. Also, chopping it just before serving preserves its volatile oils.

Best Substitutes

Flat-leaf parsley

similar texture, different flavor
Ratio 1:1

Mint

for freshness, different flavor profile
Ratio 1:1

Culantro

stronger flavor, similar aroma
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for bright green, perky leaves without yellowing or wilting. Smell for freshness. Store properly to extend shelf life.

Recipes Using Cilantro Leaf

Seafood Time To Make Occasion Seafood

Asian Shrimp And Ginger Fritters With Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

Dive into a flavor explosion with these irresistible Asian Shrimp and Ginger Fritters! Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these delightful morsels are the ultimate appetizer. Served with a vibrant, homemade sweet chili dipping sauce (or use store-bought!), these fritters are guaranteed to impress. Easily customizable for spice level – add more chilies for extra heat! Find fish sauce at your local Asian market. Get ready for a 30-minute culinary adventure!

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Long Grain Rice Asian Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains

Classic Thai Fried Rice

Authentic Thai Fried Rice recipe from "Practical Thai Cooking" by Puangkram C. Schmitz & Michael J. Worman. This vibrant dish bursts with flavor, combining fragrant garlic, aromatic curry paste, and tender tofu with perfectly fried rice. A quick and easy weeknight meal, ready in under 30 minutes!

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Time To Make Vegetables Main Ingredient 3 Steps Or Less

Avacado Relish

Bobby Flay's vibrant Avocado Relish is a quick and easy recipe that adds a burst of fresh, zesty flavor to any dish! This vibrant relish is perfect as a topping for tacos, grilled fish, or as a simple side. Made with creamy avocado, crisp red onion, fragrant cilantro, and a touch of lime, this recipe will become your new go-to for adding a fresh, flavorful kick to your meals.

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Appetizers Course Lunch Vegetarian

Asparagus And Avocado Wraps

Guilt-free goodness! These Asparagus and Avocado Wraps are packed with flavor and nutrients. Avocados, rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and boasting three times the potassium of a banana, star alongside tender asparagus in these vibrant wraps. A recipe adapted from the Mayo Clinic Williams Sonoma Cookbook, this quick and easy meal is perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that's as good for you as it is for your taste buds!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Pasta Rice And Grains Meat Mexican

Best Albondigas Soup

This award-winning albondigas soup recipe, passed down from my mother-in-law, is a family favorite! It's rich, flavorful, and honestly, better than any restaurant I've tried. Tender meatballs simmered in a vibrant broth with fresh vegetables – get ready for a taste of comfort food perfection. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under an hour.

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Number Of Servings Course Small Appliance Cuisine

Authentic Chili Verde Pork And Green Tomatillo Stew

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this Authentic Chili Verde Pork and Green Tomatillo Stew! Tender pork simmered in a rich sauce of tomatillos, fiery chiles, and aromatic spices creates a culinary masterpiece. This recipe is perfect for burrito bowls, tacos, or simply enjoyed with warm tortillas. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico!

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60 Minutes Or Less Diabetic 60 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient

Asian Black Pepper Crab

Experience the ultimate seafood feast with this Asian Black Pepper Atlantic Blue Crab recipe! We use only the freshest, live Atlantic blue crabs (callinectes sapidus) – the 'beautiful swimmers' – known for their rich, unctuous, mildly sweet, and briny flavor. Learn how to prepare these prized crustaceans, ensuring a succulent and unforgettable meal. This recipe celebrates the recent comeback of the Atlantic blue crab population, reminding us of the importance of sustainable seafood choices. Discover the story behind these incredible crabs in William W. Warner's 'Beautiful Swimmers,' a must-read for seafood enthusiasts. Serve this sensational dish al fresco for the ultimate summer experience!

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Time To Make Equipment Asian Main Ingredient

A La Truck Shrimp

Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Vietnamese street food with this easy A La Truck Shrimp recipe! Sweet, spicy, and savory, this dish is ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend gathering.

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Dietary Low Sodium 4 Hours Or Less Low Calorie

Beans And Beer

This vibrant Beans and Beer recipe is the perfect side dish for your next summer gathering! Originally featured in the Houston Chronicle's "Cook it Light" section, this vegetarian recipe is incredibly easy to make and best served chilled. Enjoy it as a refreshing bean salad or at room temperature. No soaking required – use canned beans for a quicker version. The hearty beans, crisp veggies, and zesty beer create a flavor explosion that's both satisfying and light.

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Time To Make Chicken Thighs Legs Chicken Meat

Asian Chili Chicken Noodle Soup

Spice up your weeknight with this vibrant Asian Chili Chicken Noodle Soup! A flavorful one-pot wonder, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. Swap noodles for rice noodles, cilantro for basil (use less!), but never skip the zesty lime juice! Adapted from a food and wine cookbook, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Ready in under an hour!

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Course Asian Preparation Stir Fry

Bami Goreng

Transport yourself to the vibrant markets of Broome, Western Australia with this authentic Bami Goreng recipe! This exotic and flavorful Indonesian noodle dish is a true taste of the tropics, combining perfectly cooked noodles with crunchy vegetables, aromatic spices, and a touch of sweetness. A popular holiday destination, Broome's culinary scene is a highlight, and this recipe captures the essence of that experience. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this Bami Goreng is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Snacks 60 Minutes Or Less Dietary Preparation

Baked Felafel Sandwich

Craving a healthy and flavorful meal? This Baked Falafel Sandwich recipe, inspired by Food Network's Ellie Krieger, is a delicious and nutritious option! Perfectly baked falafel balls are nestled in warm pita bread with a refreshing salad and creamy tahini sauce. Get ready for a burst of Mediterranean flavors in under an hour!

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Main Ingredient Fish Seafood Course

Beer Battered Mahi Mahi Soft Tacos W Coleslaw And Avocado Sauce

Dive into a taste of paradise with these incredible Beer Battered Mahi Mahi Tacos! Flaky, crispy mahi-mahi fillets are tossed in a light and bubbly beer batter, then flash-fried to golden perfection. Each taco is generously layered with a vibrant, crunchy coleslaw, a luscious homemade avocado sauce, and fresh cilantro. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend fiesta.

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Savory Savory Main Dish Main Ingredient

Beef With Cauliflower Crock Pot

This incredibly flavorful and healthy Beef with Cauliflower Crock Pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights! Tender beef and tender-crisp cauliflower simmer in a rich and aromatic sauce, creating a low-calorie, low-fat masterpiece. Skip the rice and enjoy it as is, topped with a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt and cilantro for a lighter option) for a satisfying and comforting meal. Adapted from The Healthy Slow Cooker.

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Time To Make To Go Fruit Appetizers

Avocado Jalapeno Salad

Spice up your life with this vibrant and easy Avocado Jalapeño Salad! Perfect as a refreshing appetizer or a light side dish, this recipe is easily scaled for any gathering. The vibrant red jalapeños (or mild red bell peppers for those heat-sensitive) create a stunning visual appeal. Ready in just 5 minutes, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that's bursting with fresh flavor. Try it today! #avocadosalad #jalapeñosalad #appetizer #easyrecipe #mexicanfood #saladrecipe #5minutemeal

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Main Dish Cuisine Course Main Dish Chicken

Balti Chicken Pasanda

Experience the fiery delight of Balti Chicken Pasanda! This authentic recipe, inspired by Northern Pakistani cuisine, delivers a rich and flavorful curry bursting with aromatic spices. Tender chicken simmers in a creamy sauce, perfectly balanced with fragrant ginger, garlic, and warming chilies. Cooked in a traditional Balti pot (or a large skillet), this dish is a culinary adventure you won't forget. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, serve it with naan bread and basmati rice for a truly immersive experience. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Easy Easy Time To Make Asian

Adzuki Bean Stew

Discover a delicious and healthy twist on a classic stew! This Adzuki Bean Stew is perfect for those watching their sugar intake, but its rich flavor and hearty texture will please everyone. Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious. A simple yet flavorful dish, ideal for a weeknight meal or a comforting weekend treat.

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30 Minutes Or Less Course Low Calorie Time To Make

Avocado And Onion Salad

Escape to summer with this vibrant and refreshing layered avocado and onion salad! Inspired by Avocadosalad.com, this recipe features ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, and crisp onions, all tossed in a zesty cilantro-lime dressing. Create a stunning layered presentation (as pictured!) or opt for a quick toss – perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe is easily customizable; use your favorite bell peppers and homegrown tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. Get ready for a taste of sunshine!

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