Cilantro
Dried Cilantro Leaves
The fresh cilantro leaves are an ingredient in many south Asian foods and in Mexican cooking, particularly in salsa and guacamole and as a garnish. Cilantro is often used raw or added to the dish immediately before serving. Cilantro has been used in cooking for hundreds of years. Like other ancient cultures, the valued cilantro for its medicinal and reputed aphrodisiacal qualities, as well as its distinctive flavor. Cilantro is one of the few food herbs used in Chinese cooking. Cilantro pairs well with many dishes, especially Mexican or Thai dishes and those with beans, cheese, eggs, and fish. Cilantro is also great with creamy vegetable dips and as a topping or garnish for soups and salads.