Cilantro Secrets

When it comes to cilantro, both the flat, waxy leaves and the stems are flavorful and edible. Though cilantro may be similar in looks to Italian parsley, the pungent aroma and taste of cilantro is incomparable to any other herb.

It is a necessary ingredient of many Mexican, Asian, Indian, Caribbean, and North African dishes and one of my personal favorite flavors.

10 Good Reasons to Eat Cilantro
1. Cilantro helps to lower blood sugar
2. Cilantro prevents nausea
3. Cilantro Aids digestion and helps settle the stomach and relieve intestinal gas
4. Cilantro helps protect the body from salmonella bacteria and urinary tract infections
5. Cilantro is an anti-inflammatory and can help alleviate arthritis symptoms
6. Cilantro is a good source of dietary fiber
7. Cilantro is a good source of iron
8. Cilantro is a good source of magnesium
9. Cilantro is rich in phytonutrients and flavonoids
10. Cilantro has long been thought to have aphrodisiac properties

Choosing
Fresh cilantro is available year-round and is usually found in the produce section of most markets next to the bundles of parsley. Find a bunch of upright, crisp cilantro with out any yellow or wilted leaves.

Storing
Fresh Cilantro can be stored in a moist (not wet) in a plastic bag for up to one week. Cilantro can be kept crisp and fresh in the refrigerator by placing the stems in a jar of water and placing a plastic bag lightly around the leaves.

Washing
The best way to wash cilantro or any bundle of herbs is to submerge them in a deep bowl of cold water. Allow enough time for dirt or sand to settle at the bottom and herbs to float clear. Then remove cilantro and rinse with plenty of cold water. Blot herbs dry with a paper towel and let sit for a few minutes to allow excess water to soak into the paper towel.

Using
For the most attractive cilantro, pull leaves from stem gently by hand. Since the stems are as edible as the leaves, cilantro can also be chopped.

Here is just one of many fabulous cilantro featuring recipes for you to try.

Cilantro Lime Rice

3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 teaspoon lime zest, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
3 tablespoons cilantro, finely minced

Toss lime zest, lime juice, and cilantro with cooked rice. Serve warm or cold.