Cilantro, also called Chinese parsley, is known as coriander in India. As per Ayurveda, cilantro leaves and seeds are used for centuries to heal digestive problems and allergies. In Indian homes, cilantro is a herb that is used almost every day in most of the dishes, either while cooking or as garnishing. Whether it is to be used or not, it is always bought in bulk as it has many health benefits. If you have a lot of cilantro lying in your fridge, you may use it for various purposes. Here are some of the super ways to use cilantro leaves:
MAKE CILANTRO TEA
Cilantro tea has a lot of health benefits. It detoxifies your body, keeps skin clear, balances hormones and adds a nice glow to your face. Pregnant ladies should avoid this tea though. To make this, you need handful of cilantro leaves, juice of half lemon, 1 teaspoon green tea (optional) and 1 cup water. Add cilantro leaves and green tea to the water (chopped) and boil it. Let it simmer for 15 minutes and turn off the flame. Let it cool down a bit and add lemon juice to it. Pour it in a glass and enjoy! This tea is extremely beneficial for those who suffer from severe acne.
TO GARNISH A LOT OF DISHES
Cilantro leaves are well known for garnishing as they not only make your dishes look attractive, but also make your dishes flavourful and smell amazing. To use it for garnishing, wash the cilantro leaves under running water, chop them fine and sprinkle it onto sandwiches, into salads and as a garnish for pasta dishes. Stir cilantro into soups, stews and chilli in the last minutes of cooking. This allows the cilantro to flavour the soup without becoming too wilted. Also, Add it to sauteed meat or vegetable dishes when you realise they have finally cooked.
MAKE CHUTNEY
Cilantro can be used to make quick chutney that is often eaten in India with wadas, samosas etc. can also be used as a dip with sandwiches, tortillas etc. This chutney can also be added in a number of dishes for a citrusy-spicy flavour. Place them in the food processor with a little sea salt, 1 green chili (optional) and the juice of 1 lemon and give them a good whiz. You can add ingredients like garlic, tomato, cucumber, peanuts and onions, too.
MAKE CILANTRO FLAVOURED MAYONNAISE
Mayonnaise is my all- time favourite and nothing beats a cilantro flavoured mayonnaise. You can get it in the stores as well, but why to buy when you can make it at home with the cilantro lying in your fridge? Pop 1 cup of unflavoured mayonnaise, ¼ cup cilantro leaves and 1 teaspoon of crushed garlic into a food processor. Churn well. Your cilantro flavoured mayonnaise is ready!
USE IT AS FACE MASK
Just like cilantro has a lot of health benefits, it also has a lot of skin benefits. It keeps skin clear, prevents new acne from appearing, reduces scars when used religiously and adds a nice glow to your face. You need 2 tablespoons cilantro paste, juice of half a lemon and 3 tablespoons of yoghurt. Mix up all the ingredients properly in a bowl and apply it on your face avoiding eye area. Keep it for 15 minutes and wash off. Do this every alternate days if you have severe acne.