If you mean “Which one is cilantro at the grocery store?”, here is a detailed explanation:
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum leaves) is the fresh green herb with small, delicate, flat leaves that looks similar to parsley. In many countries (including Pakistan, India, and much of Asia), it is usually called fresh coriander or dhania.
How to identify cilantro in the grocery store
- Appearance:
- Bright to medium green leaves
- Small, rounded, slightly jagged leaves
- Thin, soft stems (often bundled together)
- Leaves are more delicate and lacy than many other herbs
- Smell:
- Strong, fresh, citrusy, and slightly spicy aroma
- Some people describe it as “soapy” because of genetic differences in how they perceive its smell
- Where to find it:
- Usually in the fresh produce/herb section
- Sold in small bunches, often near parsley, mint, basil, and green onions
- May be labeled:
- “Cilantro”
- “Fresh coriander”
- “Coriander leaves”
- “Dhania”
Cilantro vs. parsley (the common confusion)
| Feature | Cilantro | Parsley |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves | Rounded, softer, more delicate | Pointed, sharper edges |
| Flavor | Citrus-like, fresh, strong aroma | Earthy, mild, grassy |
| Stems | Thin and tender | Usually tougher |
| Common uses | Salsa, chutneys, curries, tacos, garnishes | Salads, soups, seasoning |
Important difference:
- Cilantro = the leaves and stems of the coriander plant
- Coriander seeds = the dried seeds from the same plant
- In American English, “coriander” usually means the seeds, while “cilantro” means the fresh leaves.
In Pakistan and India, if you ask for “dhania” (دھنیا) at a grocery store, you are usually asking for cilantro leaves.