How to Wash Cilantro in 5 Steps

Cilantro (Eryngium foetidum) is a leafy green herb in the Apiaceae family of plants, with delicate leaves and stems. This close relative of parsley is also known as “coriander” in some countries, and is grown on the Coriandrum sativum plant, which also produces the common spice also known as coriander. The coriander roots are also edible, though consumed less frequently than the leaves and seeds of the plant.

This delicate herb is most frequently used in Latin American, Asian, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean cooking, particularly Mexican, Spanish, and Indian cuisine. Both the stems and leaves of the plant can be used in either their raw or cooked form. However, cilantro is generally preferred raw given its delicate structure, and the fresh leaves are frequently used as a garnish.

After you buy fresh cilantro at the grocery store, it is essential to wash the cilantro before use to remove any dirt or grit from the leaves and stems of the plant. Follow these steps to clean cilantro:

1. 1. Submerge the cilantro in water. Place the cilantro in a large bowl and fill the bowl of cold water until the cilantro is fully submerged in the water.
2. 2. Hand wash the cilantro. Swish the cilantro in the water using your hands, separating the sprigs.
3. 3. Place the stems in a colander. Lift the bunch of cilantro from the water and place it in a colander. You will see dirt and grit at the bottom of the bowl.
4. 4. Replace the water in the bowl. Submerge and rinse the cilantro once or twice more until the water is clear of grit.
5. 5. Let the cilantro air dry. You can let the cilantro air dry or remove excess water in a salad spinner or by patting it dry with paper towels.

After washing, store cilantro in the refrigerator in an airtight container wrapped in a paper towel. You can also keep the cilantro upright in a glass filled with water, like a bouquet. Cover the cilantro with a plastic bag to prevent it from drying out.

Cilantro has an intensely herbaceous flavor with notes of citrus and pepper. You can use cilantro in the following ways:

1. 1. Garnishes: You can use chopped cilantro as a garnish for various dishes, including Indian curries, Thai noodle dishes, or Mexican soups, tacos, and guacamole.
   
2. 2. Sauces: You can grind cilantro leaves and cilantro stems to make Indian chutney, Argentinian chimichurri sauce, or even an Italian pesto sauce.
3. 3. Spices: The roots and seeds of the cilantro are commonly ground to make curry paste and spice blends, such as Thai curry paste or Indian garam masala.

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