What Do Brits Call Cilantro? Unveiling the Herb’s British Name
The answer is simple: Brits call cilantro coriander. It’s the same plant, just a different name, with the term “ cilantro ” generally referring to the leaves of the plant and “ coriander ” encompassing the seeds and the entire plant.
The Great Cilantro/Coriander Divide: A Transatlantic Tale
The simple question, “What do Brits call cilantro?” opens up a fascinating look into the nuances of language and how geographical location can significantly impact our understanding of the same thing. While “cilantro” is prevalent in North America (primarily the United States) to specifically denote the leaves of the coriander plant ( Coriandrum sativum), the term is rarely used across the Atlantic.
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Coriander: More Than Just a Seed
In the UK, “coriander” is the universally accepted term for the entire plant, including its leaves, stems, and seeds. There isn’t a separate word to differentiate between the leaves and the plant as a whole. So, if you ask for coriander in a British supermarket, you’ll receive the fresh leaves, exactly what someone in the US might call cilantro. The seeds are referred to as coriander seeds, which are ground to make coriander powder.
The Botany of the Confusion
- Coriandrum sativum is an annual herb that’s been cultivated for thousands of years.
- It’s native to Southern Europe and the Middle East.
- The plant produces both leaves and seeds that are widely used in cooking.
- The leaves have a distinct, bright, and often polarizing flavor, while the seeds have a warm, citrusy aroma.
Why the Different Names? A Historical Perspective
The divergence in terminology likely stems from the history of immigration and trade. “Cilantro” is a Spanish word, and its usage in the US reflects the significant influence of Mexican and Latin American cuisine. As these cuisines became more popular in the US, the Spanish name for the leaves was adopted. In contrast, the UK’s culinary history has different influences, maintaining the traditional term “coriander” for the whole plant.
The Flavour Divide: Love It or Hate It
One of the most interesting aspects of coriander/cilantro is the genetic predisposition that makes some people perceive it as tasting soapy. This sensitivity is linked to a gene that affects the perception of certain aldehydes, aromatic compounds found in the plant. Whether you love or hate it, the flavor profile remains the same, regardless of the name used.
Culinary Uses of Coriander (aka Cilantro)
Whether you call it coriander or cilantro, this herb is a versatile ingredient used in a wide array of dishes. It is a staple in cuisines from around the world.
- Mexican & Latin American: Used in salsa, guacamole, tacos, and many other dishes.
- Indian: Used in curries, chutneys, and as a garnish.
- Southeast Asian: Used in soups, salads, and stir-fries.
- Middle Eastern: Used in salads, dips, and as a flavour enhancer.
Using Coriander (Cilantro) Effectively
- Add fresh coriander/cilantro at the end of cooking to preserve its flavour.
- Don’t overcook it, as the flavour can become bitter.
- Store fresh coriander/cilantro in the refrigerator with its stems in water.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I ask for cilantro in the UK, will people know what I mean?
It’s unlikely. Most people in the UK will not immediately understand what you mean if you ask for cilantro. You should use the term coriander to avoid confusion.
Is there any difference in taste between coriander and cilantro?
No. Coriander and cilantro are the exact same plant. Any perceived difference in taste is purely subjective, influenced by genetics and personal preference.
Are coriander seeds the same as cilantro seeds?
Yes. What Americans call cilantro, Brits call coriander. Therefore, coriander seeds are from the coriander plant as a whole. There is no such thing as cilantro seeds, there are coriander seeds.
Why is it called cilantro in some places and coriander in others?
The difference in terminology is largely due to historical and cultural factors. The term “cilantro” is derived from Spanish, reflecting the influence of Latin American cuisine in the US. The term “coriander” is believed to have originated from the Greek word koriannon.
Can I substitute dried coriander for fresh cilantro (coriander)?
Dried coriander seeds have a completely different flavor profile than fresh coriander/cilantro leaves. They cannot be substituted for each other. Dried coriander (seed) is used best in spice blends.
Is coriander easy to grow at home?
Yes, coriander is relatively easy to grow at home, either in a garden or in pots. However, it tends to bolt (go to seed) quickly in hot weather.
How do I store fresh coriander (cilantro) to keep it fresh?
The best way to store fresh coriander/cilantro is to trim the stems, place them in a glass of water, and cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag. Store it in the refrigerator.
What are the health benefits of eating coriander (cilantro)?
Coriander is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. It also contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
What dishes is coriander (cilantro) most commonly used in?
Coriander/cilantro is widely used in Mexican, Indian, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. It’s a common ingredient in salsa, guacamole, curries, salads, and soups.
If I am in the UK and a recipe calls for cilantro, can I just use coriander leaves?
Yes! If a recipe calls for cilantro and you’re in the UK, simply use fresh coriander leaves. They are the same thing.
Is there a difference in the cost of coriander vs cilantro?
Generally, the cost is the same as coriander and cilantro are different names for the same thing.
What do other countries call cilantro/coriander?
The name varies by language and region. In Spanish-speaking countries, it’s often called cilantro. In some parts of Europe, it may be known by a local name similar to coriander. Knowing “What do Brits call cilantro?” helps navigate regional variations in culinary terminology.