Coriander

Undoubtedly, it is because of its aroma and numerous beneficial properties that coriander has become one of the most common and hotly loved spicy plants in many countries of the world. All parts of it are used in cooking: seeds, roots and herbs, which are known by the name of cilantro.

Coriander has been known since ancient times, and this aromatic plant has been cultivated in the Mediterranean and Asia for more than 3000 years. Interestingly, the first mention of this spice is found in ancient manuscripts written in Sanskrit, and the seeds themselves were found during excavations of ancient Egyptian tombs.

Today, culinary experts season their dishes with cilantro (young leaves) and coriander seeds (whole or ground) with great pleasure. Do not forget that these are two completely different spices that not only have different tastes and odors, but are also applied differently. Leaves, for example, are characterized by an excellent sharp aroma and a peculiar bitter taste, and coriander seeds are distinguished by a sweeter, one might say, wood-spicy smell.

The aromatic properties of coriander in the manufacture of some types of liquor are indispensable. In general, as well as in crushed form, it is customary to add this spice to pastries and confectionery, season soups, cheeses, salads, sausages, fish and meat dishes. By the way, ground coriander quickly loses its inherent taste and aroma, and therefore it is recommended to buy whole seeds. In order for them to become more fragrant, they can be lightly fried in a dry pan before grinding.

In eastern countries, coriander is quite often used in the preparation of various sweets. For example, the very popular candies currently in America were originally common coriander seeds in candied form. Such an original treat, which simultaneously combines spicy burning and sweetness, is constantly sold in eastern bazaars.

In Cyprus and Greece, crushed coriander is used in the canning of olives. In addition, in large quantities it is added to lamb dishes, and an unusually simple but incredibly tasty dish called "Afelia" (pork braised in red wine) is also prepared with it. Probably, the Greeks turn out to be so successful that even the French, who do not particularly favor the coriander, call all dishes with coriander "in Greek. "

Coriander benefits

It is impossible not to mention the benefits of coriander for the human body, because the seeds of this plant are rich in essential oils. It is known that the main component of these oils is linalool and geraniol, due to which digestion improves with regular consumption of coriander. Preparations based on this healing spice are widely used for gastritis, ulcers of the stomach and duodenum.

In addition, the composition of this spice includes vitamins C and A, tannins, fatty oils, starch and nitrogenous substances, due to which the benefits of coriander are obvious. This spicy plant is used for the manufacture of many other medicines, for example, with antiseptic, choleretic and painkiller properties.