Cilantro, also known as ”Coriandrum Sativum” is a fresh herb used widely in various cuisines. Proper storage condition is necessary to maintain its freshness for an extended period. This article is an ultimate guide to get essential tips on how to store chopped cilantro, ensuring that it lasts for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. By following the correct information and tricks, you can easily incorporate its vibrant sprigs into all your dishes.
Nature’s Herbal Gift
It is a delicate herb widely used in Latin American, Indian and Mexican cuisines. It comes from the leaves of the coriander plant, a member of the parsley family. Proper storage is crucial for maintaining its fresh taste and vibrant green colour, making it a key ingredient in many dishes. Avoiding excess water is essential as it can cause wilting. Following the proper storage methods, you can always have this fresh herb on hand to end the question of how to store cilantro stems forever.
Unique Features of Storing Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as Chinese parsley, has distinct features that make it a versatile herb in various dishes. Its leaves have a fresh, citrusy, and slightly peppery taste, best enjoyed when fresh. Interestingly, the genetic trait that gives this herb its refreshing taste to some can make it taste soapy to others. From soups and salads to olive oil dressings and Indian chutneys, this herb adds a unique touch to different cuisines.
Selecting the Best Coriander
When selecting the best quality from the grocery store, look for vibrant green leaves and stems without any signs of yellowing or wilting. The cilantro taste should have a robust and pleasant aroma, indicating its freshness. Avoid big bunches with flowers, as they can be past their prime and taste bitter. Opt for a small set with an ample amount of leaves, as the stems may be less flavorful.
Prepping Cilantro for Storage
Properly preparing for storage is essential for maintaining its freshness and flavour. Start by gently washing the leaves under cold water, taking care not to bruise or crush them. After washing, ensure the it is thoroughly dried, either by patting it gently with paper towels or using a salad spinner. To make storage easier, cut the stems to a desired length and remove any excess leaves. By prepping correctly, you can ensure that it stays fresh and ready to use in dishes such as soups, stews, guacamole, egg dishes, and salad dressings for extended periods.
How to Clean and Dry Leafy Greens?
- Begin by separating each leaf from the stems.
- Rinse the leaves under cold water, gently rubbing them to remove dirt or debris.
- Dry the leaves, keeping them between two paper towel sheets, or use a salad spinner to ensure they are in a single layer.
- Ensure the leaves are dehydrated before storing to prevent wilting.
Storing in an Airtight Container
Gently wash and pat the leaves dry before storing. To prevent excess moisture, keep the unwashed herb in a plastic bag by squeezing out excess air and sealing it tightly. Alternatively, use an airtight container, placing paper towels between the leaves to absorb moisture. Storing unwashed coriander in a plastic bag or airtight container helps retain its fresh taste and vibrant green colour. Ensure the storage bag or container is airtight to prevent drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.
Different types of Airtight Containers
How to Store Cilantro for an Impactful Taste?
The flavour of fresh coriander is known for its freshness. It has a lively and herbaceous taste that adds a bright note and a distinct flavour to any dish. As cilantro leaves age, its taste begins to fade and can even become bitter or develop an unpleasant, soapy taste. The plant’s genetic traits can also influence the taste of these leafy herbs.
Storing in the Fridge
Stir the stems in a glass of water to keep them fresh. Next, place the herb in a plastic storage bag or freezer bag removing excess air and sealing it tightly. To maintain its freshness, cover the leaves with wet paper towel sheets and place them in a plastic zip bag. A step-by-step guide on storing is below:
- Start by cutting the stems and removing unwanted rotten leaves below the waterline.
- Place the stems in a jar of cold water, covering the branches.
- Loosely cover the leaves with a plastic zip bag and secure it with a rubber band.
- Store the jar in the fridge, and remember to change the water every few days to keep the fresh herb fresh for up to two weeks.
Make organic compost from home waste
How to Store Cilantro after Cleaning and Drying?
- Begin by separating each leaf from the stems.
- Rinse the leaves under cold water, gently rubbing them to remove dirt or debris.
- Dry the leaves, keeping them between two paper towel sheets, or use a salad spinner to ensure they are in a single layer.
- Ensure the leaves are dehydrated before storing to prevent wilting.
How to Store Cilantro Using a Glass of Water for Storage
- Cover the leaves with a plastic bag.
- Ensure the leaves are not submerged, as excess water can cause wilting.
- Change the water every few days and trim the stems slightly each time to keep them fresh for longer.
How to Store Cilantro in an Airtight Container
Gently wash and pat the leaves dry before storing. To prevent excess moisture, keep the unwashed dry herb in a plastic bag by squeezing out excess air and sealing it tightly. Alternatively, use an airtight container, placing paper towels between the leaves to absorb moisture. Storing an unwashed bunch of fresh cilantro leaves in a plastic bag or airtight container helps retain its fresh taste and vibrant green colour. Ensure the storage bag or container is airtight to prevent drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.
How to store fruits, vegetables, herbs and plants PDF
How to Store Cilantro in Water like flowers?
Yes, you can cut short the ends of the stems, place them in cool, fresh water, and get the leaves covered loosely with a plastic bag to store in water like bouquet of flowers to keep them fresh for longer. Change the water every few days to maintain freshness.
Freezing for Prolonged Usage
Preserve the fresh taste by freezing it in a plastic bag or ice cube tray with water for easy portioning. You can also freeze the stems in a mason jar to keep them fresh for months. Another option is to store it in a glass jar with a paper towel to extend its shelf life. Make sure to use airtight containers, such as a food processor Ziploc bag, to maintain the herb’s flavour.
How does the freshness of the cilantro impact its taste?
The flavour of fresh cilantro is known for its freshness. It has a lively and herbaceous taste that adds a bright note and a distinct flavour to any dish. As it ages, its taste begins to fade and can even become bitter or develop an unpleasant, soapy taste. The plant’s genetic traits can also influence the taste of cilantro.
Simple Tips and Tricks to Keep Plants Fresh
- Store it away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas.
- Trim the stems and place them in cold water to maintain freshness.
- If your herb starts to wilt, cut the stems, place them in a glass of water, and refrigerate them for a few hours to revive them.
Commonly Asked Queries
- It can last up to two weeks in the fridge when stored properly.
- It is recommended not to store at room temperature as it will wilt quickly.
- Still, it’s best to remove rubber bands and place them in a glass of water or keep them in an airtight bag with a damp paper towel.
- To store in the freezer for up to six months, chop or blend the leaves, pour the mixture into ice trays filled with water, and freeze them into cilantro cubes.
- The signs of this herb going bad include wilting, discolouration, and a foul smell.
In The End
Properly storing cilantro is crucial to maintain its freshness and flavour. Clean, dry, and cut it correctly before storing. You can use a glass of water in a plastic bag or freeze it to store unwashed cilantro. Keeping it in the fridge can also help. Freshness is vital to cilantro’s taste, so proper storage is crucial. Explore more creative ways on how to store cilantro bunch and share your storage ideas in the comments to share with our other viewers.
