Coriander, also popularly known as cilantro or Chinese parsley, is an aromatic fresh herb that has been used in culinary traditions for ages. For centuries, all around the world, the fresh flavour of coriander has been cherished in various dishes, from main courses to appetisers and sometimes even beverages. The versatility of this herb is creditable for its prized position.
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One of the most remarkable aspects of coriander is its dual usability. Both its leaves and seeds are used in cooking, each imparting a distinct flavour to dishes. Fresh coriander leaves tend to wilt and lose their flavour quickly if not stored properly. Therefore, knowing how to store coriander effectively is essential for prolonging its freshness and maximising its usability in the kitchen.
Air-Tight Jar
After washing and thoroughly drying the leaves, place them in the jar, ensuring there's no moisture to prevent decay. Seal the jar tightly to keep air out, which slows down the wilting process. Store it in the refrigerator, preferably in the door compartments where temperatures are milder. This method preserves the freshness and flavour of coriander for an extended period, ready to enhance your dishes with its vibrant aroma whenever you need it.
Paper Towel
After washing the leaves, you should pat them dry for the extra moisture to be absorbed. And now for storing them, you will need paper towels and use them as a layer so that the coriander is between them and there is no moisture on the leaves once they are in the refrigerator. Secondly, to make this procedure more effective, you can place the paper towel pack of coriander in an airtight container or plastic bag.
Freeze
Chop the leaves and stems, then place them in ice cube trays. Fill the trays with water or olive oil to preserve flavour and texture. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a resealable plastic bag, labelling it with the date. This method keeps coriander fresh for months, allowing you to conveniently add a burst of herbaceous flavour to dishes at any time.
Zip-Lock Bag
Once the washed leaves are dry, place them in a zip-lock bag, ensuring there's minimal air inside before sealing it tightly. Store the bag in the refrigerator. This method helps maintain the coriander's freshness and prevents wilting and moisture loss. Using a zip-lock bag also makes it convenient to access the coriander whenever needed, keeping it crisp and aromatic for your culinary needs over an extended period of time.
Cut The Roots
Lastly, cut the roots if you bought your corianders with intact roots. The roots of every vegetable contain an enormous amount of dirt, which is impossible to remove even if you wash it several times. Rotting is a process that happens in an instant and can start without you even noticing. The first cause of rotting is bacteria and germs and soil can be an easy source. Thus, whenever you purchase coriander with roots, make sure to cut them before storing them.