Cilantro and parsley are two distinct herbs used in many dishes. Despite their similar appearances, each herb has its own unique flavor, aroma, and taste. Understanding the difference between cilantro and parsley will help to enhance the flavor and ensure the desired culinary outcome.
5 Differences Between Cilantro and Parsley
1. How Often They Bloom
There is a difference between how often cilantro and parsley bloom. While they are both herbs (meaning they come from plants), cilantro blooms annually, and parsley blooms biennially, or only every other year.
2. The Parts of the Plant Used
Which parts of the plants are used is another way cilantro and parsley differ. When cooking with cilantro, all parts of the plants can be used. The leaves and stems are cilantro, while the seeds are coriander. When cooking with parsley, only the leaves are consumed.
3. Taste
The taste of cilantro and parsley is distinct from one another. Cilantro has a warm and nutty flavor, but some individuals perceive the spice to taste like soap. Parsley has a sharper herb taste, similar to mint.
4. Recipes They Are Used In
Another difference between cilantro and parsley is the recipes in which they are used. Cilantro is mostly used in Mexican and Asian cooking and can be added as an ingredient mid-cook or garnish. Parsley is more commonly found in European and Asian dishes and is mostly used as a garnish or at the very end of the cooking process.
5. Medicinal Uses
Both parsley and cilantro have medicinal benefits, but it is how the two herbs are used that is different. Cilantro is an antibacterial, helping prevent foodborne illnesses like salmonella. It can also be used to treat conditions like diabetes and anxiety.
Parsley is used to help control blood pressure, but it can also lead to the formation of kidney stones, so it’s important not to consume too much. Additionally, parsley can cause uterine stimulation, so most pregnant women are advised to avoid it.
Can You Replace Parsley with Cilantro?
Parsley and cilantro should not be used interchangeably. They have remarkably different flavor profiles, and swapping one for the other within a recipe could change the final result.
The only time it is appropriate to exchange cilantro for parsley is when using it as a garnish, but even then, it should be done with careful consideration so the taste of the recipe isn’t affected.
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