How To Freeze Cilantro: 3 Ways to Use Frozen Cilantro

Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) is an annual herb in the Apiaceae family. All parts of the cilantro plant are edible, including the stems, leaves, and seeds. In some regions, cilantro is also known as coriander or Chinese parsley. Like parsley, cilantro is used as a garnish in many dishes, including in Mexican and Thai cuisine. Cilantro’s bright green color makes it a good garnish for soups, stews, tacos, and other cooked dishes. Dried cilantro is also used as a garnish as well as a seasoning in salads and veggie dishes.

Freezing herbs like cilantro is easy if you follow some simple steps.

1. 1. Gather your supplies. To prepare to freeze cilantro, you’ll need paper towels, a cutting board, a sharp knife, and airtight containers.
2. 2. Wash the cilantro. Use ice-cold water or cool water to rinse the cilantro. Warm or hot water can cause cilantro leaves to become mushy.
3. 3. Dry the cilantro. After thoroughly cleaning the cilantro, spread out your cilantro bunch on paper towels to dry. Make sure the cilantro is fully dry before you prepare to chop and then store it.
4. 4. Chop the cilantro. Use your hands to remove the cilantro leaves from the stems, then bunch the leaves together in a tight mound. Finely mince the cilantro leaves using a sharp knife and a back-and-forth rocking motion.
5. 5. Store the cilantro in an airtight container. Transfer the chopped cilantro into an airtight container for long-term storage. A vacuum-sealed plastic bag or zip-top freezer bag makes an effective storage container for frozen cilantro. Keep your freezer temperature at zero degrees Fahrenheit for the best results. Store frozen cilantro for up to six months before defrosting and using it in a recipe.

Thaw your frozen cilantro in a bowl on the kitchen counter for about twenty minutes. You can use your room-temperature cilantro in a variety of ways.

1. 1. Cilantro pesto sauce: Italian pesto sauce is traditionally made with basil, but you can use cilantro as a zesty alternative. Other ingredients for cilantro pesto include olive oil, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and a sprinkling of salt.
2. 2. Cilantro chutney: This Indian recipe calls for cilantro puree, lime juice, lemon juice, green chilis, and a dash of sugar depending on whether you prefer sweet or savory chutney. Use a food processor to blend all the ingredients, then serve as a dip for finger foods or as a spread for naan.
3. 3. Cilantro lime shrimp: This easy seafood dish uses fresh shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, cilantro, and chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Note that fresh cilantro (not previously frozen) works best for certain recipes, like guacamole and salad dressings. Buy a fresh bunch of cilantro from the grocery store when preparing guacamole dip or salad dressing.

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