What is the average shelf life of cilantro? How long does cilantro last in the pantry, refrigerator, or freezer? What is the best way to store cilantro to increase its shelf life? Find out the answers to these questions and more below:
Shelf Life of Cilantro
| Pantry | Refrigerator | Freezer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh | 5-7 Days | Up to 7 Days | 2-3 Years |
| Dried | 2-3 Years | - | - |
Cilantro is a delicate herb that is also often known as Chinese parsley. Most people like to garnish their food with cilantro. It comes from the leaves and stems of the coriander plant and has a unique flavor. Usually, cilantro has a shelf life of 3 weeks after you buy it. Cilantro lives longer than many other types of herbs. However, some enemies of the herb may reduce its life. Firstly, exposing it to excessive light can make it pale. Secondly, when this herb is placed in the wrong temperature, it loses its flavor. Thirdly, extraordinary or insufficient moisture cause it to wilt and grow mold.
Purchasing Cilantro
A favorite seasoning, cilantro is widely available in supermarkets due to the fact that cilantro grows back each year. It is bright green and resembles parsley. There are certain things that you need to check before buying cilantro.
- Pick brightly colored and fresh, fragrant cilantro.
- Make sure you differentiate between cilantro and parsley. Cilantro looks similar to parsley. However, you can make the right decision by its aroma.
- Do not select a bunch that has yellow and black leaves.
How To Store Cilantro:
Cilantro is one of those herbs that perish easily. The good thing is you can save it for more prolonged use by following some tricks. If you want to use cilantro within one week, then place it in a plastic bag and refrigerate it. It can be stored in the freezer, as well. Take a small quantity of dried cilantro, and put it in a cookie mold. Also, cut the stems of the green bunch and keep it in a zipper bag. This way, the shelf life will increase from 3 to 6 weeks.
How to Handle Cilantro
Once you have selected a bunch of cilantro, it needs to be washed. Undoubtedly, the freshly-bought cilantro is sandy, so do not forget to rinse it. Washing cilantro is not an arduous task; it can be done within a few minutes. Start the procedure by holding the bunch from the lower portion, and transfer it into a large bowl. Then, fill the bowl with cold water and change the water twice until the cilantro is free of dirt. Do not forget to dry it, because moisture will decay cilantro. Therefore, keep the washed bunch on the paper towel and let it dry for 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Cilantro
Often, cilantro is used to garnish Mexican and Asian foods to enhance the flavor of various dishes. Upon cooking cilantro, it will lose its color and turn black; this is why you cannot cook it. When there is no parsley in your kitchen, you can substitute it for cilantro. Moreover, it is full of vitamin A and prevents diseases. This herb can be combined with several other edibles, like legumes, lemons, avocados, etc. You can also try cilantro with spices, such as chili, pepper, and so on. Additionally, cilantro is helpful for curing indigestion.