At first glance, one might think a typo occurred when writing Culantro, but that’s not the case. Culantro vs Cilantro is a battle between two different herbs.
Even though they’re different, they are closely related and have some similarities. For example:
- Both Culantro and Cilantro flavor stews, soups, and even garden salads.
- You can eat both raw or cooked
- Their aroma is strong and distinct (although Culantro’s aroma is more pungent.)
- They are interchangeable when making guacamole, soups, and salads.
- Both are a great addition to a salsa garden
- Both are part of the parsley family
The difference between Cilantro and Culantro
Although they have many similarities, they are different herbs. Here’s where some of their differences lie.
Culantro VS Cilantro leaves
Culantro leaves have a completely different shape than ever-popular cilantro leaves. Culantro leaves are long, green, and pointy, while cilantro leaves look more like flattened parsley leaves, only a brighter green without prickly edges.
Culantro VS Cilantro Flavor
Many of us haven’t tried Culantro, but most have tasted Cilantro at one time or another. Like most spices, those who love Cilantro are big fans and will put it on almost anything, including eating it raw.
But! A small part of the population has a genetic condition making Cilantro taste like soap!
Whether you love it or can live without it, Culantro has the same potent flavor as Cilantro, only more so. And not only is Culantor’s flavor more powerful, but the smell is as well.
Because of the potency, if you choose to substitute Culantro with Cilantro, you should cut back on the amounts you’d usually put in.
Culantro VS Cilantro – where do they come from?
- Culantro is a member of the Parsley family. It’s common in the Caribbean, Trinidad Caribbean, Asia, and part of Latin American cuisine.
- Cilantro is known by many names, Chinese Parsley, Mexican Parsley, and Mexican Coriander. Its genesis began in the Mediterranean, and today is part of Latin American cuisine.
Culantro Planting
Culantro Planting is no different than planting Cilantro. Both can be planted in the spring or fall.
To plant – If planting directly in the garden or pots
- Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours.
- Plant the seeds ½ inch deep in well-drained soil. Partial sun or full sun is best.
- Water when soil is dry to the touch. Don’t overwater, or the herb will turn yellow from root rot.
- Once they have germinated, about 30 days from planting, thin them out to about 6 inches apart.
- They are ready to harvest when the leaves are 3-4 inches long.
- Cut the leaves at the base of the plant, and be sure to leave some leaves so the plant can continue growing.
- You can store Culantro and Cilantro in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Culantro Seeds
Culantro Seeds
This package of 500+ Culantro SẸẸDS is ideal for anyone who loves to cook! They’ll add a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful touch to any dish.
With these sẹẹds, you can grow your culantro plant at home and use it to add fresh flavor to your cooking.
To use, simply sprinkle on top of your favorite dishes before serving. You’ll love the taste of fresh Culantro!
Cilantro Seeds
Cilantro Seeds
Add Cilantro to your herb garden. You’ll be surprised at the fantastic results with these heirloom Cilantro seeds from Home Grown. Plant them in your garden, outside in pots, or, if you prefer, in an indoor herb garden.
Either way, with just a little care, you’ll be able to enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh Cilantro that you can use in all your favorite recipes.
It’s easy to grow and can add something special to your dishes.
Where to Buy Culantro and Cilantro
Besides gathering fresh Culantro in your backyard herb garden or inside planters, you can buy Culantro plants in the grocery store or nursery. In most stores, you find Cilantro around the parsley area, where it is sold in bundles. Culantro is harder to find as it’s not as popular due to its strong taste. If you’re having difficulty, you may want to look at a local Latin American or Asian grocery store.
Culantro Health Benefits
- A good source of vitamins A, C, and Iron.
- Packed with antioxidants
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Helps boost the immune system
- Improves digestion
- Shows anticancer activity
Cilantro Health Benefits
- Cilantro benefits liver function by acting as a detox
- Helps kidney function
- May balance blood sugar
- Soothes the skin
- Cilantro benefits detox
- Acts as anti-inflammatory
- Antibacterial compound that fights foodborne pathogens
- Helps to calm the nervous system
- Supports digestion
WhiteHerb Planters
Barnyard Designs Farmhouse Herb Garden Planter Indoor Planter Set
These white herb planter pots are perfect for holding small plants and herbs.
They come in a set of three, and each has water-draining holes, ensuring your plants won’t get root rot.
Also included is a long tray to catch any water that might drip. These pots are a great way to add some greenery to any space.
You don’t have to have a glorious backyard to grow Cilantro or Culantro. Growing the herbs inside is easy and handy to have close by the kitchen! You’ll be enjoying great healthy herbs within no time!