Cilantro! You're either crazy about it's amazing flavor, or you're missing out!
Although slightly resembling flat leaf parsley in appearance, cilantro can be distinguished by its unmistakable aroma and flavor. Cilantro offers citrus overtones with a flavor that can be bright, earthy and pungent. Cilantro is the leaves and stems of the coriander plant, also known as Chinese Parsley. An annual herb and member of the Carrot family, cilantro is the most widely used, aromatic, leafy herb in the world. It is an indispensable herb in the culinary landscape with no substitute that can simulate its flavor.
Cilantro is a good source of Vitamins A and K, dietary fiber, and manganese. The entire Cilantro plant – roots, stems, and leaves are all edible, boasting different beneficial nutrients. Essential oils that are distilled from the Cilantro plant have been said to aid in digestion used to sooth irritated skin.
Cilantro is most prolific in Latin American, Asian, North African and Indian cuisine. Though it may be used as a garnish, both the stems and leaves are often a main ingredient in regional dishes. Use cilantro with yogurt, cheese, tropical fruit, tomatoes, corn, potatoes, onions, chiles or in combination with fresh herbs. Pair with meats, seafood, poultry, tofu and noodles. Cilantro is a delicate herb, and should be kept dry and refrigerated until use.