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Cilantro Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cilantro

[sɪˈlæn.trəʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cooking herb

Cilantro, also known as coriander (especially in British English), is a flavorful herb commonly used in various cuisines around the world. It has a distinct fresh, citrusy flavor that can enhance salads, salsas, and many dishes. Its leaves and stems are used for cooking, while the seeds are known as coriander seeds. An interesting aspect of cilantro is that opinions on its taste can vary greatly; some people enjoy its flavor, while others describe it as soapy due to a genetic trait. This herb is often used in Mediterranean, Latin American, and Asian cuisines.

Synonyms

Chinese parsley, coriander, fresh coriander.

Examples of usage

  • I added cilantro to the salsa for a fresh taste.
  • Many Asian dishes use cilantro as a garnish.
  • Cilantro is popular in Mexican cuisine.
  • You can also find cilantro in Thai salads.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Widely used in Latin American, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, it adds a fresh flavor to dishes like guacamole and curry.
  • Some people love the taste of cilantro, while others find it tastes like soap due to a genetic difference in taste perception.

Cultural Significance

  • In Mexican culture, cilantro is considered an essential ingredient in many traditional dishes, representing freshness and flavor.
  • In ancient Egypt, cilantro was used as a spice and even as a food preservative, showing its historical culinary importance.

Health Benefits

  • Cilantro is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, making it a nutritious addition to meals.
  • It contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.

Botanical Characteristics

  • The cilantro plant can grow up to 50 centimeters tall, producing tiny white or pink flowers that attract beneficial insects.
  • Coriander seeds and cilantro leaves come from the same plant, showcasing its dual use in cooking.

Origin of 'cilantro'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cilantro' comes from the Spanish term for coriander, which is derived from the Latin word 'coriandrum'.
  • In many parts of the world, the same plant's leaves are called cilantro, while the seeds are known as coriander.

The word 'cilantro' derives from the Spanish term for the herb, which itself comes from the Latin word 'coriandrum,' referring to the plant. The use of cilantro dates back to ancient Mediterranean cultures, where it was utilized both for its culinary and medicinal properties. Cilantro has been recognized for thousands of years, with evidence of its cultivation found in ancient Egyptian tombs. The plant's origins trace back to regions that encompass modern-day Europe, India, and the Middle East. Over time, it spread to the Americas, where it has been integrated into various local cuisines. Variations in its name arise from some regions referring to the leaves as cilantro and the seeds as coriander, highlighting the dual aspects of this versatile herb. Despite its widespread popularity, cilantro remains a subject of debate regarding its taste, which can be polarizing among those who consume it.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,278, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.