What Is Cilantro Paste?
A concentrated paste made from fresh cilantro leaves, stems, oil, and often lime juice or vinegar, offering convenience for adding herb flavor to dishes.
What Does Cilantro Paste Taste Like?
Cilantro Paste has a fresh, herbaceous, citrusy, pungent (for some), soapy (for others) taste with bright, green, earthy, lemony aromas.
- Taste
- Fresh, Herbaceous, Citrusy, Pungent (for some), Soapy (for others)
- Texture
- Smooth, Thick, Slightly fibrous
- Aroma
- Bright, Green, Earthy, Lemony
- Acidity
- Med (due to lime/vinegar)
Technical Metrics
Nutrition Facts
Per 15g (1 tbsp)Chef’s Secret
To maintain the bright green color and fresh flavor of cilantro paste when cooking, add it towards the end of the cooking process, rather than at the beginning.
Cilantro Paste Substitutes & Ratios
The best substitute for Cilantro Paste is Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped), used at a 2:1 (paste to fresh) ratio. Best flavor and freshness, but requires chopping; use more for intensity.
| Substitute | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped) Best | 2:1 (paste to fresh) | Best flavor and freshness, but requires chopping; use more for intensity. |
| Dried Cilantro | 1:2 (paste to dried) | Less potent, different flavor profile; best rehydrated or used in slow-cooked dishes. |
| Parsley Paste (or fresh) | 1:1 | Offers a similar herbaceous, green note, but lacks cilantro's unique pungency/citrus. |
| Cumin (ground) + Lime Juice | To taste | To mimic some of cilantro's earthy and citrusy notes, but not a direct flavor match. |
How to Choose & Store Cilantro Paste
- Check ingredient list for unnecessary additives.
- Store in the refrigerator.
What Pairs Well With Cilantro Paste?
- Tacos
- curries
- salsas
- marinades
- guacamole
- stir-fries
- soups
- stews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Cilantro Paste taste like?
Fresh, Herbaceous, Citrusy, Pungent (for some), Soapy (for others) Bright, Green, Earthy, Lemony
What is a good substitute for Cilantro Paste?
The best substitute is Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped) (2:1 (paste to fresh)). Best flavor and freshness, but requires chopping; use more for intensity.
How do you choose and store Cilantro Paste?
Check ingredient list for unnecessary additives. Store in the refrigerator.