Cilantro vs. Coriander — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 1, 2024
Cilantro refers to the fresh leaves of the Coriandrum sativum plant, used as an herb, while coriander can denote either the seeds of the same plant, used as a spice, or the plant itself in different regions.
Difference Between Cilantro and Coriander
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Cilantro is the term used in the Americas to describe the fresh, green leaves and stems of the Coriandrum sativum plant, known for their distinctive, bright flavor that is a staple in Mexican and Asian cuisines. On the other hand, coriander is used in many parts of the world, including Europe and Asia, to refer to the dried seeds of the same plant, which have a lemony, warm flavor and are commonly used in spice mixes, curries, and baking.
In the culinary context, cilantro is typically used fresh to maintain its pungent aroma and flavor, which can be a key component in salsas, guacamole, and salads. Whereas coriander seeds are usually dried and ground into powder or used whole, contributing a subtly sweet and spicy note to dishes.
Cilantro is known for its divisive taste profile; some people adore its refreshing taste, while others perceive it as soap-like due to genetic differences. In contrast, coriander seeds generally have a more universally accepted flavor, described as warm, nutty, and citrusy, appealing to a broader audience.
Nutritionally, cilantro leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, providing a range of health benefits from antioxidant properties to aiding in digestion. Coriander seeds, however, are known for their dietary fiber, iron, magnesium, and manganese, offering different yet complementary health benefits.
While cilantro is often added to dishes just before serving to preserve its delicate flavor and appearance, coriander seeds are typically added during the cooking process to fully release their flavor, demonstrating how the form of the herb/spice affects its culinary use.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Part of Plant
Leaves and stems
Seeds (or whole plant in some regions)
Culinary Uses
Used fresh in salads, salsas, and garnishes
Used dried or ground in spice mixes, curries, and baking
Flavor Profile
Bright, pungent, and refreshing with a potential soap-like taste for some
Warm, nutty, lemony, and subtly sweet
Nutrition Benefits
Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
High in dietary fiber, iron, magnesium, and manganese
Cooking Application
Added towards the end of cooking or as a garnish
Added during the cooking process
Compare with Definitions
Cilantro
Fresh leaves of the Coriandrum sativum plant, used as a herb.
Cilantro adds a burst of freshness to the taco filling.
Coriander
Dried seeds of the Coriandrum sativum plant, used as a spice.
Coriander seeds were ground into a fine powder for the curry.
Cilantro
Can taste soap-like to some due to genetic factors.
Despite its popularity, some of my guests find cilantro's flavor reminiscent of soap.
Coriander
Often referred to the plant itself in many parts of the world.
Coriander needs full sunlight to grow well.
Cilantro
Used mainly fresh to preserve its flavor and aroma.
I always add cilantro just before serving to maintain its vibrant taste.
Coriander
Characterized by a warm, nutty, and lemony flavor.
The coriander added a subtle warmth to the stew.
Cilantro
Known for its bright and pungent flavor profile.
The cilantro in the salad elevated its overall taste.
Coriander
Provides dietary fiber, iron, magnesium, and manganese.
Adding coriander seeds to the diet can boost mineral intake.
Cilantro
Often associated with Mexican and Asian cuisines.
Cilantro is a staple in my homemade salsa recipe.
Coriander
Used in spice mixes, curries, and baking.
Toasted coriander seeds are a key ingredient in my spice blend.
Cilantro
The fresh stems and finely divided young leaves of the coriander plant, used in salads and various dishes as a flavoring and garnish. Also called Chinese parsley, coriander.
Coriander
Coriander (; Coriandrum sativum) is an annual herb in the family Apiaceae. It is also known as Chinese parsley, dhania or cilantro ().
Cilantro
(US) The stems and leaves of the coriander plant, Coriandrum sativum, used as a seasoning and garnish in cooking.
Coriander
An aromatic annual Eurasian herb (Coriandrum sativum) in the parsley family, having parsleylike leaves and umbels of tiny white to pinkish flowers. It is cultivated for its edible fruits, leafy shoots, and roots.
Cilantro
An Old World herb (Coriandrum sativum) with aromatic parsleylike leaves and seed.
Coriander
The seedlike fruit of this plant, used whole or ground as a flavoring for food and as a seasoning, as in curry powder.
Cilantro
A parsleylike herb used as seasoning or garnish.
Coriander
See cilantro.
Cilantro
Old World herb with aromatic leaves and seed resembling parsley
Coriander
The annual herb Coriandrum sativum, used in many cuisines.
Cilantro
Parsley-like herb used as seasoning or garnish
Coriander
The dried fruits thereof, used as a spice.
Coriander
An umbelliferous plant, the Coriandrum sativum, the fruit or seeds of which have a strong smell and a spicy taste, and in medicine are considered as stomachic and carminative.
Coriander
Old World herb with aromatic leaves and seed resembling parsley
Coriander
Dried coriander seeds used whole or ground
Coriander
Parsley-like herb used as seasoning or garnish
Common Curiosities
What is cilantro?
Cilantro refers to the fresh leaves of the Coriandrum sativum plant, used as an herb in cooking.
Are cilantro and coriander from the same plant?
Yes, both come from the Coriandrum sativum plant but refer to different parts.
Why does cilantro taste like soap to some people?
Some individuals have a specific gene that makes cilantro taste like soap to them.
Is cilantro healthy?
Yes, cilantro is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and offers various health benefits.
Is coriander healthy?
Yes, coriander seeds are high in dietary fiber, iron, magnesium, and manganese.
What is coriander?
Coriander can refer to the seeds of the Coriandrum sativum plant, used as a spice, or the plant itself in some regions.
Can cilantro and coriander be used interchangeably in recipes?
Due to their different flavor profiles and forms, cilantro and coriander are not generally interchangeable in recipes.
Can coriander seeds be eaten whole?
Yes, coriander seeds can be eaten whole but are often ground to release their flavor.
What are the main uses of coriander in cooking?
Coriander is used dried or ground in spice mixes, curries, and for baking.
Can you grow cilantro and coriander at home?
Yes, the Coriandrum sativum plant can be grown at home, yielding both cilantro leaves and coriander seeds.
What are the main uses of cilantro in cooking?
Cilantro is primarily used fresh in salads, salsas, and as a garnish.
How should cilantro be stored to maintain its freshness?
Cilantro should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally in a jar of water with a plastic bag over the leaves.
How do cilantro and coriander contribute to a dish's flavor?
Cilantro adds a fresh, pungent taste to dishes, while coriander provides a warm, nutty, and lemony flavor.
What cuisines commonly use cilantro?
Cilantro is commonly used in Mexican, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines.
What cuisines commonly use coriander?
Coriander is used in a wide range of cuisines, including Indian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Hence vs. Henceforth
Next Comparison
Found vs. FountAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
