Cilantro, also known as coriander or dhania, is a popular herb used in various cuisines, particularly in Mexican, Indian, and Asian cooking. Its fresh, citrusy flavor and aroma make it a staple in many dishes, from salsas and salads to curries and chutneys. If you’re looking to add cilantro to your recipes, you might wonder: do grocery stores sell cilantro? In this article, we’ll explore the availability of cilantro in grocery stores, its different forms, and provide tips on how to find and use this versatile herb.
Availability of Cilantro in Grocery Stores
Cilantro is a widely available herb in most grocery stores, particularly in the produce section. You can usually find it in the following forms:
Fresh Cilantro
Fresh cilantro is the most common form of cilantro found in grocery stores. It’s typically sold in bunches or bags, with the leaves and stems attached to the roots. Fresh cilantro is highly perishable and has a short shelf life, so it’s essential to use it within a few days of purchase.
Dried Cilantro
Dried cilantro is another common form of cilantro found in grocery stores. It’s often sold in spice jars or packets and can be used as a substitute for fresh cilantro in recipes. However, dried cilantro lacks the fresh flavor and aroma of its fresh counterpart.
Cilantro Seeds
Cilantro seeds, also known as coriander seeds, are commonly found in the spice or international foods section of grocery stores. They can be used to grow your own cilantro plants or as a spice in various recipes.
Cilantro Paste or Puree
Some grocery stores may carry cilantro paste or puree in the international foods or produce section. This form of cilantro is convenient for cooking and can be used as a substitute for fresh cilantro in recipes.
Where to Find Cilantro in Grocery Stores
Cilantro can be found in various sections of a grocery store, depending on the store’s layout and the form of cilantro. Here are some common places to find cilantro:
Produce Section
The produce section is the most likely place to find fresh cilantro. Look for it in the herb or international produce section, often near the basil, parsley, or other fresh herbs.
Spice Aisle
Dried cilantro and cilantro seeds can be found in the spice aisle, often near the other spices or herbs.
International Foods Section
Cilantro paste or puree, as well as cilantro seeds, can be found in the international foods section, often near the Mexican, Indian, or Asian food products.
Tips for Buying and Using Cilantro
When buying cilantro, look for fresh, green leaves with no signs of wilting or yellowing. Here are some tips for using cilantro:
Choosing Fresh Cilantro
- Look for cilantro with fresh, green leaves and no signs of wilting or yellowing.
- Choose cilantro with a pleasant, citrusy aroma.
- Avoid cilantro with brown or yellow leaves, as it may be past its prime.
Storing Cilantro
- Store fresh cilantro in a plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Keep cilantro away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Use cilantro within a few days of purchase, as it’s highly perishable.
Using Cilantro in Recipes
- Use fresh cilantro as a garnish or add it to recipes at the end of cooking to preserve its flavor and aroma.
- Use dried cilantro as a substitute for fresh cilantro in recipes, but reduce the amount used, as it’s more potent.
- Use cilantro seeds as a spice or to grow your own cilantro plants.
Health Benefits of Cilantro
Cilantro is not only a flavorful herb, but it also has several health benefits. Here are some of the key health benefits of cilantro:
Antioxidant Properties
Cilantro has antioxidant properties, which can help protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Cilantro has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Digestive Health
Cilantro has been shown to improve digestive health by reducing bloating and gas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cilantro is a widely available herb in most grocery stores, particularly in the produce section. It can be found in various forms, including fresh, dried, seeds, and paste or puree. When buying cilantro, look for fresh, green leaves with no signs of wilting or yellowing. Store cilantro properly to preserve its flavor and aroma, and use it in a variety of recipes to add flavor and nutrition. With its numerous health benefits and versatility in cooking, cilantro is a great addition to any kitchen.
Additional Resources
If you’re looking for more information on cilantro or want to learn more about using it in recipes, here are some additional resources:
- Epicurious: Cilantro Recipes
- Healthline: 10 Surprising Health Benefits of Cilantro
- Food.com: Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
By following these resources and tips, you can become a cilantro expert and start incorporating this versatile herb into your cooking repertoire.
Do all grocery stores sell cilantro?
Not all grocery stores sell cilantro, but it is a common herb found in many supermarkets. The availability of cilantro can depend on the store’s location, size, and target market. Larger grocery stores and those that cater to international or Latin American cuisine are more likely to carry cilantro. However, smaller stores or those in areas with limited demand may not have it in stock.
If you’re having trouble finding cilantro in stores, you can try checking with local health food stores, specialty grocery stores, or farmers’ markets. These types of retailers may carry cilantro or be able to order it for you. You can also consider growing your own cilantro at home, as it is a relatively easy herb to cultivate.
Where is cilantro typically located in a grocery store?
Cilantro is typically located in the produce section of a grocery store. It may be displayed with other fresh herbs, such as basil, parsley, and dill, or it may be placed near the lettuce and other leafy greens. Some stores may also carry cilantro in the international or Latin American food section, particularly if they offer pre-packaged or frozen cilantro.
If you’re having trouble finding cilantro in the produce section, you can try checking the store’s directory or asking a store employee for assistance. They may be able to direct you to the correct location or offer suggestions for alternative products.
Can I buy cilantro in bulk?
Yes, it is possible to buy cilantro in bulk, although the availability of bulk cilantro may vary depending on the store. Some grocery stores, particularly those that cater to restaurants or large families, may offer bulk cilantro in their produce section. You can also try checking with local farmers’ markets or specialty grocery stores, as they may carry bulk cilantro or be able to order it for you.
Buying cilantro in bulk can be a convenient option if you use a lot of cilantro in your cooking or if you want to freeze it for later use. However, be sure to check the freshness and quality of the cilantro before purchasing in bulk, as it can spoil quickly if not stored properly.
How do I choose fresh cilantro?
When choosing fresh cilantro, look for bunches with bright green leaves and stems. Avoid cilantro with wilted or yellowing leaves, as it may be past its prime. You should also check the cilantro for any signs of mold or pests, such as aphids or spider mites.
Another way to check the freshness of cilantro is to smell it. Fresh cilantro should have a bright, citrusy aroma. If the cilantro smells sour or unpleasantly pungent, it may be old or spoiled. Finally, be sure to check the price and compare it to other stores in your area to ensure you’re getting a good value.
Can I grow my own cilantro at home?
Yes, it is relatively easy to grow your own cilantro at home. Cilantro is an annual herb that prefers well-drained soil and full sun. You can sow cilantro seeds directly in the ground in the spring or fall, or you can start them indoors in pots and then transplant them outside.
One of the challenges of growing cilantro is that it can be slow to germinate and may bolt (go to seed) quickly. To overcome this, be sure to sow the seeds thinly and keep the soil consistently moist. You can also try growing cilantro in containers, which can help to extend the harvest season.
How do I store cilantro to keep it fresh?
To keep cilantro fresh, it’s essential to store it properly. One way to store cilantro is to place it in a plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also wrap the cilantro in a damp paper towel and store it in the crisper drawer.
Another way to store cilantro is to freeze it. Simply chop the cilantro leaves and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen cilantro is perfect for adding to soups, stews, and sauces. You can also dry cilantro by tying it in small bunches and hanging it upside down in a warm, dry place.
Are there any substitutes for cilantro?
While cilantro has a unique flavor and aroma, there are some substitutes you can use in a pinch. One of the closest substitutes for cilantro is parsley, which has a similar fresh, green flavor. You can also try using basil, dill, or tarragon, although these herbs have slightly different flavor profiles.
Another option is to use cilantro’s cousin, Vietnamese coriander (also known as rau ram). This herb has a similar flavor to cilantro but with a slightly more bitter taste. You can also try using cilantro’s seeds, which have a nutty, slightly bitter flavor and can be used as a spice.