Culantro — ผักชีฝรั่ง (phak chii faraang) — Eryngium foetidum
Culantro, also known as long coriander, spiny coriander, Mexican coriander, and recao, is a tropical herb native to the Mediterranean region and tropical Asia. It is a member of the Apiaceae family, which also includes parsley, celery, and carrots. Culantro has a strong, pungent flavor that is often described as being similar to cilantro, but with a more citrusy and earthy undertone. The leaves of culantro are long and serrated, and the plant has a distinctive spiny stem.
How is culantro used in Thai cuisine?
Culantro is a popular herb in Thai cuisine, and it is used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, curries, and soups. It is often used fresh, but it can also be dried or used in powdered form. Culantro is a key ingredient in many popular Thai dishes, such as tom yum soup, green curry, and larb.
What are the health benefits of culantro?
Culantro is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. It also contains antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Culantro has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, coughs, and digestive problems.
Where can I buy culantro?
Culantro can be found in many Asian markets and specialty grocery stores. It is also becoming more common in mainstream grocery stores. If you cannot find fresh culantro, you can also use dried culantro or culantro powder.
Here are some tips for using culantro:
- Culantro can be used in place of cilantro in most recipes. However, it is important to use a little less culantro than you would cilantro, as culantro has a stronger flavor.
- Culantro can be added to dishes at the end of cooking, or it can be simmered for a longer period of time to release its flavor.
- Culantro can be used to make a flavorful pesto or chimichurri.
- Culantro can be dried and used in powdered form. Culantro powder can be added to soups, stews, and marinades.
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