Cilantro Vs. Parsley - Some Key Differences

Cilantro vs. Parsley - They are both aromatic herbs that are often used in cooking. They have some similarities in their appearance and flavor, but there are also some key differences between the two.

Some Similarities

• Both cilantro and parsley have delicate, feathery leaves and green stems.
• Both herbs are often used to add flavor and freshness to dishes.
• Rich in nutrients and have potential health benefits.

Cilantro Vs. Parsley - The Differences

Cilantro has a strong, pungent flavor that is often described as citrusy or floral, while parsley has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Some people find the flavor of cilantro to be very appealing, while others find it to be soapy or unpleasant. This difference in perception is thought to be due to genetic factors, and some people are more sensitive to the compounds in cilantro that give it its distinctive flavor.

Photo Credit: Nepa Scene (Flickr)

Cilantro is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly used in Latin American, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian cuisine. Parsley is native to the Mediterranean region as well, and is widely used in many different types of cuisine.

Cilantro is usually used in small amounts as a garnish or flavor enhancer, while parsley is often used more generously as a garnish or in larger amounts as a main ingredient in dishes such as tabbouleh.

Cilantro tends to be more delicate and perishable than parsley, and should be stored in the refrigerator and used quickly. Parsley is generally more resilient and can be stored at room temperature for a longer period of time.

Cooking With Cilantro

Here are some tips for cooking with cilantro:

Choose fresh cilantro

Look for cilantro with bright green leaves and stems, and avoid wilted or yellowing leaves. Cilantro is generally more perishable than other herbs, so it is best to use it as soon as possible after purchasing it.

Store cilantro properly

To keep cilantro fresh, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. Store it in the refrigerator and use it within a few days. Alternatively, you can place the stems of the cilantro in a glass of water, cover the leaves with a plastic bag, and store it in the refrigerator.

Prep cilantro for cooking

To prep cilantro for cooking, rinse the leaves and stems under cool water, then shake off excess water. Trim off the roots and tough lower stems. Chop the cilantro finely or leave the leaves whole, depending on your recipe.

Add cilantro to dishes at the right time

Cilantro is best added to dishes just before serving, as its delicate flavor can be lost if it is cooked for too long. If you are adding cilantro to a cooked dish, wait until the last few minutes of cooking to add it.

Pair cilantro with complementary flavors

Cilantro pairs well with a wide range of flavors, including citrus, chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and nuts. It is often used in combination with other herbs and spices to add flavor to dishes.

Some popular dishes that feature cilantro include salsa, guacamole, Thai curry, and chimichurri sauce. Cilantro is also a common ingredient in marinades and rubs for grilled meats, and it can be used to add flavor to soups, stews, and other cooked dishes.

Cooking With Parsley

Here are some tips for cooking with parsley:

Choose fresh parsley

Look for parsley with bright green leaves and stems, and avoid wilted or yellowing leaves. Parsley is generally more resilient than other herbs, so it can be stored at room temperature for a longer period of time.

Store parsley properly

To keep parsley fresh, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. Store it in the refrigerator and use it within a few days. Alternatively, you can place the stems of the parsley in a glass of water, cover the leaves with a plastic bag, and store it in the refrigerator.

Prep parsley for cooking

To prep parsley for cooking, rinse the leaves and stems under cool water, then shake off excess water. Trim off the roots and tough lower stems. Chop the parsley finely or leave the leaves whole, depending on your recipe.

Add parsley to dishes at the right time

Parsley is a versatile herb that can be added to dishes at various stages of cooking. It can be added to soups, stews, and other cooked dishes towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its fresh flavor. Parsley is also commonly used as a garnish to add flavor and visual appeal to dishes.

Pair parsley with complementary flavors

Parsley pairs well with a wide range of flavors, including citrus, garlic, and nuts. It is often used in combination with other herbs and spices to add flavor to dishes.

Some popular dishes that feature parsley include tabbouleh, Italian pesto, and gremolata. Parsley is also a common ingredient in marinades and rubs for grilled meats, and it can be used to add flavor to soups, stews, and other cooked dishes.

Cilantro Vs. Parsley - The Bottom Line

In general, cilantro is used to add a bold, distinctive flavor to dishes, while parsley is used to add a mild, fresh flavor. Both herbs can be used to add color and visual appeal to dishes, and they are often used in combination to enhance the flavor and presentation of a dish.