🌿 Spices & Herbs

Coriander vs Cilantro: Complete Guide & Substitution Tips

Learn the difference between coriander and cilantro, and how to substitute one for the other. Find the best ratios and techniques for perfect results.

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Quick Answer

Coriander and cilantro are the same plant - coriander refers to the seeds and cilantro refers to the leaves. For fresh leaves, use cilantro (1:1). For seeds, use coriander seeds (1:1). For ground coriander, use ground coriander seeds (1:1).

Best Substitutes

Cilantro Leaves

1:1

Cilantro leaves are the same as fresh coriander leaves - they're from the same plant. Use fresh cilantro leaves as a substitute for fresh coriander leaves. This is the most authentic substitute available.

Best for:

fresh coriander substitutegarnishingsoupssaladswhen you want fresh herb

Cilantro and coriander are the same plant, so this is the most authentic substitute. Use fresh cilantro leaves for the best flavor and appearance.

Coriander Seeds

1:1

Coriander seeds are the dried seeds of the cilantro plant. Use coriander seeds as a substitute for cilantro when you need the seed form. They have a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor.

Best for:

when you need seed formpicklingbreadspice blendswhen you want citrusy flavor

Coriander seeds are the dried seeds of the cilantro plant, so they provide the same flavor profile. Use them when you need the seed form rather than fresh leaves.

Ground Coriander

1:1

Ground coriander is made from coriander seeds and can work as a substitute for cilantro in some recipes. It provides the same flavor profile but in ground form.

Best for:

when you need ground formspice blendscurrywhen you want citrusy flavorbaking

Ground coriander provides the same flavor as coriander seeds but in ground form. It works well in spice blends and curry recipes.

Parsley + Cumin

1:1 + 1/2 tsp

Combining fresh parsley with a small amount of ground cumin can create a substitute for cilantro. This combination provides freshness with some warmth.

Best for:

when cilantro isn't availablegarnishingwhen you want fresh herbsoupssalads

Use fresh parsley as the base and add a small amount of ground cumin for warmth. This works well when cilantro isn't available.

Thai Basil

1:1

Thai basil can work as a substitute for cilantro in some recipes. It has a similar fresh, herbal flavor and works well in Asian dishes.

Best for:

Asian disheswhen cilantro isn't availablewhen you want fresh herbcertain curriessoups

Thai basil has a different flavor profile than cilantro, so it works best in recipes where the herb is part of a blend rather than the main flavor.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡For fresh leaves, use cilantro as it's the same plant as coriander
  • 💡For seeds, use coriander seeds as they're the dried seeds of the cilantro plant
  • 💡For ground form, use ground coriander made from coriander seeds
  • 💡When substituting in recipes, consider whether you need fresh leaves or seeds
  • 💡For best results, use fresh cilantro leaves rather than dried ones
  • 💡When using parsley + cumin, use fresh parsley and add ground cumin for warmth
  • 💡Store fresh cilantro in the refrigerator to maintain its quality and flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

Are coriander and cilantro the same thing?

Yes, coriander and cilantro are the same plant. Cilantro refers to the fresh leaves, while coriander refers to the dried seeds. The leaves are called cilantro and the seeds are called coriander.

Can I substitute cilantro for coriander?

Yes, you can substitute cilantro for coriander depending on the form you need. For fresh leaves, use cilantro leaves. For seeds, use coriander seeds. For ground form, use ground coriander made from coriander seeds.

What's the difference between coriander and cilantro?

Coriander and cilantro are the same plant, but coriander refers to the dried seeds while cilantro refers to the fresh leaves. The seeds have a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor, while the leaves have a fresh, herbal flavor.

Can I use coriander seeds instead of cilantro?

Coriander seeds can work as a substitute for cilantro in some recipes, but they have a different flavor profile. Use them when you need the seed form rather than fresh leaves.

What can I substitute for cilantro if I don't have it?

If you don't have cilantro, you can use fresh parsley with a small amount of ground cumin, or Thai basil. Use a 1:1 ratio for parsley or Thai basil, and add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin for warmth.

Summary

Learn the difference between coriander and cilantro, and how to substitute one for the other. Find the best ratios and techniques for perfect results.