What is the Difference Between Cilantro and Coriander?

Cilantro and coriander come from the same plant, Coriandrum sativum, but they refer to different parts of the plant and have distinct flavors and uses in cooking. Here are the main differences between cilantro and coriander:

• Cilantro: Refers to the leaves and stems of the coriander plant. It has a sharp, tangy, and almost citrus-like flavor and a strong aroma. Cilantro is commonly used in Asian, South American, and Mexican cuisines, as well as in sauces and salads.
• Coriander: Refers to the dried seeds of the coriander plant. The seeds have a sweet-spicy flavor profile and are round and beige in color. Coriander seeds can be purchased whole or ground and are frequently used in pickling brines, curries, rice dishes, soups, and meat rubs.

Naming conventions may vary depending on the region. In the US, cilantro refers to the leaves and stems, while coriander refers to the dried seeds. However, in the UK and other European nations, coriander refers to both the spice and the leafy herb, and the seeds are called coriander seeds.

Comparative Table: Cilantro vs Coriander

Cilantro and coriander come from the same plant, Coriandrum sativum, but they refer to different parts of the plant and have different flavors and aromas. Here is a table summarizing the differences between cilantro and coriander:

In the United States, cilantro refers to the leaves and stems, while coriander seeds are referred to as… coriander seeds. However, in the United Kingdom and Australia, the term coriander is used for both the leaves and stems of the plant.