Cilantro
By: Anonymous

About

Cilantro is commonly associated with Mexican cuisine and is also popular in South Asian cultures. It has an aromatic flavor that is good both raw and cooked into dishes. Many people do not like the taste and describe it as tasting similar to soap. It is believed that the reason some people dislike cilantro is tied to the acidity level in their saliva, which causes it to taste different to them.

Information
Other names: Fresh Coriander, Chinese Parsley, Coriander Leaf
Translations: Koriandrs, コリアンダー, Salieras, الكزبرة, Lístky koriandra, Coriandre, Цилантро, 실란트, Lístky koriandru, Rau mùi, כוסברה, Ketumbar, Koriander, Силантро, Сілантро, 胡荽叶, Korianteri, Coriandre, Кантарион


Physical Description
Cilantro is a bright green herb, with leaves that resemble a lacy 3 leaf clover. The leaves are soft much much like basil in texture.It has a pungent aroma and pairs well with lime and tomatoes.
Colors: green


Tasting Notes
Flavors: bitter, spicy, sweet
Mouthfeel: Earthy, Pungent
Food complements: Sea food, Fishes, Sea bass, Salads, Burritos
Wine complements: White wine, Sauvignon blanc
Beverage complements: Sangria, Tequila, Lemonade
Substitutes: Culantro, Parsley, Basil, Lemon basil, Mint, Epazote


Selecting and Buying
Seasonality: january, february, march, april, may, june, july, august, september, opctober, november, december
Peak: june, july, august, september
Choosing: Look for bright green leaves with no brown. The leaves should be perky and not wilted.
Buying: Available at most grocers year round. Available at farmer's markets in the summer months.


Preparation and Use
Rinse lightly
Cleaning: Rinse the leaves and shake off the excess water.