Coriander

A plant from the parsley family, known as cilantro from which the seeds are harvested for use as a seasoning. As the cilantro plant goes to seed, small fruits form on the stems that extend up and beyond the cilantro greens (leaves). The fruits or seeds as they are also known, are harvested from the cilantro plant when they turn dark tan in color. The coriander seeds, which can be used whole or ground into a powdered form, are very popular in Indian and Middle Eastern dishes, providing a sweet and somewhat fruity flavor. The leaves of the coriander plant that are referred to as cilantro or Chinese parsley, emit a strong aroma and are popular spicy ingredient in Asian and Mexican cooking. Mexican salsa and fish dishes are common foods prepared with cilantro as an ingredient. The coriander root is also very popular in Asian dishes, especially when it is combined with other ingredients.