One of the most common ingredients used for garnishing is coriander. Also known as Dhania in Hindi, the herb makes its way as a chutney, a popular condiment in most Indian kitchens. The herb is renowned for adding fresh and citrusy flavour to a wide array of dishes.
Moreover, it is nutritious to include coriander leaves in the dishes. It is packed with phytochemicals such as polyphenols, vitamins, and many phytosterols which account for its properties like anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and others as per the study ‘Coriandrum sativum L.: A Review on Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, and Cardiovascular Benefits,’ by the journal MDPI Molecules dated Dec 20, 2021. People are familiar with coriander chutney as a common condiment that can be paired with a variety of dishes, however, there are several dishes that can be made with coriander leaves. Let’s embark on a culinary journey through some of the most beloved dishes made with coriander.
- Coriander Fritters
Also known as dhaniya pakora, coriander fritters are one of the mouthwatering snacks that is enjoyed all across the nation, especially with evening chai. To prepare this, fresh coriander leaves are mixed with besan, spices, and water to form a thick batter. A spoonful of batter is then dropped into the hot oil and fried till golden brown. The fritters burst with the earthy flavour of coriander and aromatic spices.
- Coriander Dal
This is a comforting and nutritious lentil dish that is enriched with the flavours of coriander leaves. You can easily make this dal by choosing from toor dal which is cooked until tender and then tempered with mustard seeds, cumin seeds, garlic, and dried red chillies. Fresh coriander leaves are added towards the end which imparts a fresh aroma and vibrant green colour to the dal. Coriander dal is usually served with steamed rice or roti.
- Coriander Paratha
You must have tried different types of parathas be it aloo paratha, mooli paratha, or gobi paratha, but have you ever tried dhaniya paratha? Well, this variation of Indian flatbread is made with whole wheat flour and fresh coriander leaves. Here, chopped coriander leaves are kneaded into the dough along with spices like cumin, chilli powder, and salt. The dough is then divided into portions and rolled into thin discs. It is then cooked on a tawa with oil or ghee and fried till golden brown. Coriander parathas are often enjoyed with yoghurt, pickle, or curry.
- Coriander Chicken
Also known as dhaniya murg, this is a delectable Indian dish that is infused with flavours of coriander leaves. Here, the tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a mixture of yoghurt, coriander paste, ginger-garlic paste, and spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chilli powder. The marinated chicken is then cooked with a rich gravy made with onions, tomatoes, and coriander leaves paste. The chicken is then simmered into the gray and cooked all the flavour meld together and the chicken becomes tender. It is finally garnished with coriander leaves.
- Coriander Rice
Dhaniya Pulao or coriander rice is a fragrant and flavourful rice dish. The main ingredients that impart flavour to the dish are coriander leaves. To prepare the dish, basmati rice is cooked with onions, tomatoes, and whole spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, and an adequate amount of chopped coriander leaves. The rice exudes a vibrant green colour which has a delicate aroma and a refreshing taste of coriander. Coriander rice pairs perfectly with raita or curry.
- Coriander Potato Curry
Made with humble potatoes, this dish infuses the aromatic flavours of coriander. To make this, potatoes are cut into dice which are cooked in a spicy gravy made with coriander paste, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices. Fresh coriander leaves are added at the end which imparts a burst of freshness and colour to the dish. Pair this dish with roti or rice.