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Cilantro is one of those foods that people either love or hate. Interestingly, the regions of the world where it is most cherished are not where it originated. Cilantro’s genesis can be traced to the Mediterranean. The Romans spread it to Asia while the Spanish conquistadors introduced it to Mexico and Peru. Subsequently, cilantro is a primary herb in Indian, Asian, and Latin American cuisines while Europeans and Americans have given it a lukewarm reception. Nevertheless it is touted as the world’s most popular herb.
Cilantro’s nomenclature is somewhat confusing. The entire plant and the seeds are properly named coriander, while the leaves alone are cilantro. Colloquially, the entire plant and leaves are referred to as cilantro and only the seeds as coriander. Cilantro is also referred to as Chinese parsley.
Cilantro has been used for thousands of years. Coriander seeds have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs. The Chinese believed it to be an aphrodisiac and to produce immortality. Coriander, like many foods throughout the ages, has also been credited with a number of medicinal properties.
Cilantro is available year round. It is a delicate herb that fades quickly. Most supermarkets carry it but finding fresh, non-wilted specimens is the challenge. Choose bunches with bright green leaves and a fragrant aroma. Store it in a plastic bag or place the roots in a container of water with the tops covered by plastic wrap or a bag. Either way, in a few days it will be a shadow of it’s original self. Coriander seeds and/or ground coriander can be found in the spice aisle of most supermarkets. As with all spices it is best to purchase the seeds whole and grind them yourself for the best flavor. Cilantro stems are also edible and provide a bright crunchiness to your dish. Add cilantro leaves toward the end of cooking or just before serving. Its fragile flavor is easily dissipated by heat.
Americans are most familiar with cilantro in their salsa and guacamole. However, cilantro and coriander are used all over the world in countless preparations. It is used with meat, chicken, fish, sauces, marinades, chutneys, you name it. Coriander is even used in baking.
Cilantro has been used for thousands of years. Coriander seeds have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs. The Chinese believed it to be an aphrodisiac and to produce immortality. Coriander, like many foods throughout the ages, has also been credited with a number of medicinal properties.
Cilantro is available year round. It is a delicate herb that fades quickly. Most supermarkets carry it but finding fresh, non-wilted specimens is the challenge. Choose bunches with bright green leaves and a fragrant aroma. Store it in a plastic bag or place the roots in a container of water with the tops covered by plastic wrap or a bag. Either way, in a few days it will be a shadow of it’s original self. Coriander seeds and/or ground coriander can be found in the spice aisle of most supermarkets. As with all spices it is best to purchase the seeds whole and grind them yourself for the best flavor. Cilantro stems are also edible and provide a bright crunchiness to your dish. Add cilantro leaves toward the end of cooking or just before serving. Its fragile flavor is easily dissipated by heat.
Americans are most familiar with cilantro in their salsa and guacamole. However, cilantro and coriander are used all over the world in countless preparations. It is used with meat, chicken, fish, sauces, marinades, chutneys, you name it. Coriander is even used in baking.
Debo's Layer Dip
2012, Debo, Christine's Pantry. All rights reserved.
Ingredients:
1 (32 oz) container yogurt
1 package taco seasoning mix
1 teaspoon cilantro
2 (16 oz) cans refried beans
guacamole
salsa
Mexican blend cheese
lettuce, shredded
Directions:
Place yogurt in a strainer lined with a paper towel and set the strainer over a bowl. Let the yogurt drain and thicken overnight.
Combine yogurt, taco seasoning and cilantro, mix well.
To assemble, in 11x15 dish, spread refried beans, then spread yogurt mixture, then spread guacamole, salsa, lettuce and cheese. Enjoy!
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Great recipe, my guys would love this one.
ReplyDeleteGreat dip...I make one similar with sour cream. Hope your having a great weekend Christine!
ReplyDeleteI don't really like cilantro but I love just about anything else Mexican related. This looks like a yummy dip!
ReplyDeleteLooks delicious - I'm a cilantro fan! It goes in all my salsa & guacamole recipe! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteSounds really tasty!
ReplyDeleteHmm, thanks for the explanation. I always talk about coriander, never cilantro. This looks yummy
ReplyDeleteAnd the dip? As long as get the recipe, we're happy.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a winner and thanks for the info on how to make sure we keep getting your great tips and recipes.
ReplyDeleteThis dip sounds very tasty. Andi
ReplyDeleteGreat post, already following you on G+
ReplyDeleteThank you, Cookinglady!
ReplyDeleteYum...I would eat this up like crazy!! I like cilantro in small doses, so I usually just cut back on whatever a recipe calls for and am good!
ReplyDeleteThis looks super delicious! I love dips, they're one of my favorites :) Great recipe Christine!
ReplyDeletewho doesn't LOVE a great taco dip! I just came across a Taco dip cheesecake style. Looks pretty good, I'll be trying it soon.
ReplyDeleteLove this dip. Yum yum. I am afraid all these Google changes are way over my head. I hope I do not lose all my followers or who I am following but I just do not understand it all!!! Diane
ReplyDeleteYummy! This is a perfect dip for all occasions, Christine!
ReplyDeleteThis would be a great recipe for a party!
ReplyDeleteThis dip sounds amazing! I know what you're saying about cilantro. I once put some in a salad and my youngest son accused me of trying to poison him. lol He hated it!
ReplyDeleteYummo - I'm a big fan of coriander (its leaves and its delicious roots that most people throw away).
ReplyDelete