Culantro vs Cilantro

Culantro and cilantro are two herbs that are often used in Latin American, Caribbean, and Southeast Asian cuisine. While they may look similar and have similar names, there are actually several differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the differences between culantro and cilantro in terms of appearance, flavor, and uses.

 

Appearance

Culantro and cilantro may look similar at first glance, but there are some key differences in their appearance.

 

Culantro (Eryngium foetidum) has long, serrated leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly waxy texture. Culantro can grow up to two feet tall and can have a slightly spiky appearance.

 

Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) has smaller, more delicate leaves that grow on thin stems. The leaves are a lighter shade of green and have a feathery appearance. Cilantro can grow up to two feet tall and produces small, white or pink flowers.

 

Flavor

The flavor of culantro and cilantro is also quite different. Culantro has a strong, pungent flavor that is often described as a combination of parsley, cilantro, and citrus. It has a distinct aroma and can be quite overpowering if used in large amounts. Culantro is often used in Caribbean and Latin American cuisine, where it is added to soups, stews, and sauces to add flavor and depth.

Cilantro, on the other hand, has a more delicate flavor that is often described as fresh and citrusy. It has a subtle, sweet aroma and is often used as a garnish or in salads. Cilantro is also used in many Mexican and Southeast Asian dishes, where it is added to salsas, guacamole, and curries.

 

Uses

Culantro and cilantro are used in a variety of ways in cooking. Culantro is often used in Caribbean and Latin American cuisine, where it is added to soups, stews, and sauces to add flavor and depth. It is also used to make a popular condiment called recaíto, which is a mixture of culantro, garlic, peppers, and onions.

 

Cilantro is used in many Mexican and Southeast Asian dishes, where it is added to salsas, guacamole, and curries. It is also used to flavor rice dishes, soups, and stir-fries. Cilantro is often used as a garnish and is sprinkled on top of dishes just before serving.

 

It's worth noting that some people have a genetic predisposition that makes cilantro taste like soap to them. For these people, culantro may be a good alternative, as it has a different flavor profile.

 

In conclusion, culantro and cilantro are two herbs that may look similar but have distinct differences in flavor and uses. Culantro has a strong, pungent flavor and is often used in Caribbean and Latin American cuisine. Cilantro has a delicate, citrusy flavor and is often used in Mexican and Southeast Asian dishes. Knowing the differences between these two herbs can help you choose the right one for your cooking needs.