| |  | | Uses for Cilantro in Cooking
Answered by: Yvonne Tremblay
Question from: Alex Anicetti
Posted on: February 21, 2007
What uses does cilantro have for cooking and what are its characteristics?
Cilantro, also called fresh coriander, is commonly used in Southeast Asia, Chinese, Spanish, Mexican, South African, Central American and East Indian Cooking, adding an authentic flavour to dishes. Goes well with most hot/spicy foods. The roots are used in Thai cooking. Cilantro has a sage-like taste with sharp citrus notes. The scent is quite unique and distinct. Leaves are similar to Italian parsley (flat and fanned with jagged edges), so smell them to be sure you have the right herb if buying in supermarket. When it goes to seed, collect as soon as the flowers and seeds become brown --- grind and use for cooking, or save seeds for planting. Chop cilantro and add to fresh salsa; sprinkle over Indian dishes such as chicken korma, shrimp tikka; cook with tomatoes and eggplant; add to mayonnaise to serve with cold shrimp; add to taco fillings, black bean and corn salad, lentil or black bean soups; add to butters for vegetables or fish. Leaves do not keep their flavour well when dried. Chop and freeze, or freeze in butter.
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