CILANTRO (Coriander)

Geek talk: Coriandrum sativum But we talk: Coriander, Chinese or Mexican parsley Description: The seeds of the coriander plant, cilantro is often used as a spice in many different regions across the world. Typified by its citrus flavor when crushed, the seeds are very common in South Asian foods as well as Mexico. The coriander seeds are even sometimes used in the brewing of certain beers especially Belgian wheat beers. The plant itself grows as high as 20 inches and all parts of the plant are edible. The leaves are very commonly used in salads and chutney in South Asia to add flavor. Kitchen Pharmacy: Coriander and cilantro both have been linked to reducing risk for certain types of diabetes and has been used in India often as a healing spice and an anti-inflammatory. Cilantro is also believed to help lower cholesterul and blood sugar. It even has been used to help fight certain foodborne illnesses such as salmonella. Nutrition: 100 Grams contains

Origin: Mediterranean

  References:

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cilantro#Leaves
2. http://www.food.com/library/cilantro-16
3. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=70