Herb | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Cilantro Leave

Coriandrum sativum Allergen-Free
cilantro leave

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Apiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Latin American, Middle Eastern, Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Coriander plant leaves

The Forktionary Angle

"The polarizing herb that adds a burst of freshness or a soapy surprise."

Definition

The fresh, aromatic leaves of the coriander plant, widely used as an herb in global cuisine for its bright, citrusy flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteFresh, Citrusy, Soapy (for some), Peppery, Herbaceous
TextureDelicate, Leafy, Tender
AromaFresh, Citrusy, Pungent
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Common Culinary Use

Garnish, Flavoring, Salsa, Curries

Genetic Taste Variation

OR6A2 gene causes soapy" taste in some"

Optimal Storage Method

Stems in water, covered loosely, refrigerated

Nutrition Facts

Per 4 g (1/4 cup chopped)
Calories23 kcal
Total Fat0.5 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein2.1 g
Total Carbohydrate3.7 g
Dietary Fiber2.8 g
Total Sugars0.9 g
Calcium67 mg
Iron1.8 mg
Potassium521 mg

Chef’s Secret

If someone has the 'soap gene' for cilantro, switch to flat-leaf parsley and add a squeeze of lime juice for similar freshness.

Substitutions

Best Match

Flat-Leaf Parsley

1:1

Similar appearance and fresh herbaceousness, but lacks cilantro's distinct citrus/peppery notes.

Mint Leaves

1:1 (for fresh flavor)

Adds a burst of fresh flavor, but distinctly minty. Best for Asian or Middle Eastern dishes.

Basil Leaves

1:1

Offers a different but strong fresh herb flavor, useful in some contexts but changes the profile.

Cumin (pinch)

Small pinch

For the earthy, warm notes found in dried coriander seeds, not fresh cilantro. Use sparingly.

Buying Guide

Choose vibrant green leaves with no wilting or yellowing. Store like a bouquet in water in the fridge.

Flavor Pairings

Lime Avocado Onion Garlic Chili Fish Chicken Tacos Salsa.

Recipes Using Cilantro Leave

Easy Lunch Snacks 30 Minutes Or Less

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Meat Holiday Event 30 Minutes Or Less Cuisine

Amazon Fried Chicken Breasts With Cilantro Sauce

Experience a taste of Houston's culinary scene with this vibrant Amazon Fried Chicken recipe from renowned chef Michael Cordúa! This quick and easy recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner, features crispy chicken breasts coated in crushed potato chips and served with a refreshing cilantro-lime sauce. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Serve with a side of tomato salad for a complete and delicious meal.

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American Kitchen Classic Basic Thai Curry

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Easy Easy Preparation Cuisine

Apricot Couscous

Elevate your weeknight meal with this vibrant Apricot Couscous recipe! Ready in under 30 minutes, this exotic side dish bursts with sweet apricots, crunchy almonds, and fresh herbs. Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as a vegetarian delight.

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Dinner Party Appetizers Course Preparation

Artichoke Guacamole

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Appetizers Vegetables Indian Vegetarian

Asher's Aloo Bondas

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Appetizers 30 Minutes Or Less Finger Food Lemon

Asian Boiled Shrimp Spicy Asian Mayonnaise

A tantalizing twist on a New Orleans classic! This recipe infuses succulent boiled shrimp with vibrant Asian flavors, creating an irresistible appetizer perfect for any occasion. The creamy, spicy Asian mayonnaise is equally delicious as a dipping sauce or used to elevate sandwiches and tuna salad. Maria Elena's go-to appetizer, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. Impress your guests with this quick and flavorful dish!

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Easy Main Dish Egg Free Course

Asian Hoisin Ribs

Tender, fall-off-the-bone Asian Hoisin Ribs, slow-cooked to perfection! This recipe, inspired by Betty Crocker's 'More Slow Cooker Recipes', delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy juicy, succulent ribs glazed with a rich and savory hoisin sauce – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Easy Asian Easy To Go

Asian Slaw With Spicy Thai Vinaigrette

Craving a flavor explosion? This Asian slaw, inspired by Joe's Farm Grill in Gilbert, Arizona (featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!), is bursting with vibrant flavors and a spicy kick. This isn't your average slaw – it's a culinary adventure! We've adapted Guy Fieri's recipe to bring you the most amazing, restaurant-quality slaw you can make at home. Get ready for perfectly balanced sweet, sour, and spicy notes in every crunchy bite! Perfect as a side dish for burgers, grilled meats, or even as a light meal on its own.

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Sauces Vegan Number Of Servings 15 Minutes Or Less

Avocado And Tomatillo Dip

This vibrant Avocado and Tomatillo Dip is bursting with fresh flavor and incredibly easy to make! Perfect as a healthy appetizer, snack, or side dish, this recipe combines creamy avocados with tangy tomatillos for an unforgettable taste sensation. Ready in under 10 minutes, it's the perfect last-minute addition to any gathering.

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Taste Mood Served Hot Ground Beef Vegetables

Barley Albondigas Meatball Soup

Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty Barley Albondigas Meatball Soup! A zesty twist on classic beef barley soup, this recipe from the Barley Foods Council is packed with flavor and perfect for a comforting meal. Pearl barley cooks quickly and can be prepped ahead – simply cook it ahead, refrigerate or freeze for up to a week. For best results, bring refrigerated or frozen cooked barley to room temperature before adding it to the soup.

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Preparation Seasonal Poultry Occasion

Bbq Chicken And Chipotle Salad

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Main Dish To Go American One Dish Meal

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Spicy Vegetarian Appetizers Cuisine

Benito Bean Dip With Zippy Zonya Mexi Mix

A vibrant and healthy bean dip bursting with flavor! This recipe, inspired by Better Homes & Gardens, features a homemade Zippy Zonya Mexi Mix for a zesty kick. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight snack, this dip is served with multi-grain tortilla chips for a wholesome and satisfying treat. Easy to make and even easier to devour!

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Diabetic Diabetic Chicken Main Ingredient

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