Coriander is a spice obtained from cilantro, an herb native to North
Africa and Eurasia that is now cultivated throughout the world. The seed
of the plant is used whole or powdered to flavor a wide range of foods
and is a staple seasoning in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Asian and
Latin American cuisines.
The flavor of coriander combines well with other spices and herbs in
soups, stews and long-simmering dishes that contain meat, legumes or
vegetables. Combined with
lemon zest,
garlic,
parsley, capers and olive
oil, powdered coriander seed becomes a gremolata for dipping, spreading
or as a condiment for grilled chicken or fish. Coriander also brightens
the flavor of apples and peaches and enhances the buttery flavors of
cookies, quick breads, muffins and crumbles.
