Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a fragrant leafy herb that is used to add a slight spicy flavour to many fresh dishes. The leaves can be used as a fresh herb, and the seeds can be dried and used as a spice. Cilantro is typically ready for harvest in Ontario in spring and into the summer.
The fresh leaves of cilantro are typically added fresh to dishes as cooking diminishes their flavour. Being a staple of Mexican cuisine, they are typically used to garnish and flavour salsa, guacamole, dips, fish dishes, tacos, and salads. Cilantro is best enjoyed fresh from the plant, and can be frozen and dried for longer storage. The roots and the seeds can be dried and used as spices and flavouring for meats, soups, salads, pickling, and sauces.
Cilantro originates from the region of Southern Europe to Southwestern Asia and even Northern Africa. Cilantro is the Spanish name for coriander and is often used to refer to the leaves of the plant due to its extensive use in Mexican cuisine.
