Cilantro for Dummies

Hey there! Let's take a moment to understand what "cilantro" means. Cilantro refers to a herb that has bright green leaves and a distinctive flavor. It's often used in various cuisines around the world, adding a fresh and tangy taste to dishes.

When we talk about cilantro, we're actually referring to the leaves of the coriander plant, which is part of the parsley family. It's worth noting that coriander seeds come from the same plant, but they have a completely different taste compared to the leaves. So, keep in mind that when we say "cilantro," we're specifically referring to the lovely, leafy part of the coriander plant.

If you haven't tasted cilantro yet, try imagining its taste as a combination of refreshing citrusy notes with a hint of earthiness. Some people love it and find it adds a delightful burst of flavor to their meals, while others aren't as fond of it and may describe it as soapy or even downright unpleasant.

Here's something interesting: cilantro is widely used in many traditional Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian dishes. So if you've ever had salsa, guacamole, curry, or even a hummus dip, chances are, you've tasted a bit of cilantro without even realizing it!

Now, let's break it down in simpler terms. Cilantro is a type of plant that people grow for its leaves. These leaves are often used in cooking and can add a special taste to dishes. Some people love it, while others don't. It's used in different foods from various countries. So, next time you try a new dish and taste something unique and fresh, it might just be cilantro!