Monthly Archives: May 2016

Is It Coriander Or Cilantro?

by garden, herbs and spices

Many people may not realize that coriander and cilantro are actually the same thing. An herb that is part of the same botanical family as carrots and parsley. Sometimes it's even referred to as either Chinese or Mexican parsley.

Can you taste it?

Coriander and cilantro are actually both part of the same plant. Cilantro refers to the leaves while cilantro is the seeds. Cilantro is used a lot in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine but can also be found in Middle Eastern dishes.  One of my favorite ways to use it is in Quinoa Tabbouleh. Coriander is also used in Mexican dishes but also tends to feature heavily in curries.  Adding it to a stew or soup is a great way to spice it up and add a new level of flavor.

One of the most unusual things about cilantro is the taste. While many people love and enjoy it, there are those to whom it tastes soapy. It turns out this may be due to a particular genetic trait. They examined this on SciShow

Why Does Cilantro Taste Like Soap

Health benefits

In addition to being tasty, cilantro and coriander have some wonderful health benefits.  High in vitamin K, A, and C, as well as folate and potassium. It's also a powerful detoxifier and anti-inflammatory herb.  And it is being studied for it's ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure while supporting cardiovascular health.

The infographic below lists some more health benefits for this amazing herb.  Easy to grow at home, put it in an 8-10″ deep pot in a sunny, easterly or southerly window.  Plan new seeds every two to three weeks to ensure a constant supply of cilantro.  Let some go to seed in order to harvest coriander.

coriander

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Infographic courtesy of http://www.medicinalplants-pharmacognosy.com/

Boost Nutrition With Herbs

by garden, herbs and spices, nutrients

When it comes to fresh product most of us think fruits and vegetables.  Not everyone remembers to include herbs in that category, however they are a great added source of nutrients.  Herbs boost nutrition because they are a nutrient dense food with vitamins and minerals. Many of them are even a source of anti-oxidants.  Aim for 2-4 tablespoons of herbs per day for a healthy boost to your diet.

fresh vs. dry

When using herbs it's important to remember that there is a big difference between fresh and dry.  The ratio is one to three; one part dry or three parts fresh.  So if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh herb (such as basil) you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dry.  Remember there are 3 teaspoons in a tablespoon.  Be sure to read your recipe carefully and scale up or down properly.

nutrition boosts

As mentioned above, different herbs have different nutrient values.  The table below shares the health boosting properties of ten common herbs used in the kitchen.
 

Herb
Nutrition
Health Benefits
    Parsley
    high in vitamins C, K, and iron, this is also an antioxidant and a powerful detoxifier
    an immune system booster, parsley is supportive for bones, the nervous system.  also beneficial for kidney health and blood pressure
    Sage
    high in vitamin K, highly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
    memory enhancing  benefits
    Rosemary
    rich in vitamins B6, C, A, folate, calcium, iron, and potassium, is also highly anti-inflammatory and antiseptic
    beneficial to reduce swelling and aching, rosemary has also been shown to soothe an upset stomach. studies also show it's benefits for lowering the risk of asthma, liver disease, gum disease, and heart disease
    Thyme
    contains vitamin C, iron, and manganese with anti-microbial, antibacterial, and anti-parasitic qualities
    studies show thyme is supportive for coughing, bronchitis, chest congestion, and other respiratory ailments
    Oregano
    a good source of vitamin K, iron, manganese, and calcium.  a good source of antioxidants, oregano is also antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic
    supportive for relieving colds and congestion.  also shown to be helpful against menstrual cramps, fatigue, bloating, and acne
    Tarragon
    a rich source of vitamin C
    stimulates and supports the digestive system and has been shown to be beneficial for flatulence and constipation.  also beneficial for oral health and supporting gums
    Dill
    high in vitamin C and manganese, a good antibacterial herb
    supportive for bladder health, dill is also a natural diuretic.  appeas to be effective for supporting blood sugar levels and reducing cholesterol
    Basil
    rich in vitamins A, K, and manganese as well as having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
    supportive for digestion, basil also has been shown to reduce swelling and pain in joints, to promote circulation, and is a mild diuretic
    Mint
    contains vitamins A, C and folate
    has benefits for digestive support against gas, upset stomach, and indigestion.  studies have also shown benefits for congestion
    Cilantro (aka Coriander)
    good source of vitamins K, A, and C, cilantro is highly antioxidant, antibacterial and a power detoxifier
    studies have shown benefits for blood sugar and cholesterol levels

 

growing herbs

Many herbs are easy to grow at home.  They can be grown either in a container or directly in the garden.  The infographic below provides planting instructions, flavor profiles, and suggested uses.  Add a nutrient and flavor boost to your diet by incorporating herbs.

Herb Your Enthusiasm Infographic
“Herb Your Enthusiasm” on Health Perch

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