How to Store Cilantro
Learn how to keep cilantro (coriander leaves) fresh for more than two weeks in the refrigerator. It is really helpful if the veggies are cleaned ahead of time and ready to use in cooking whenever needed. In this method, before storing the cilantro in the refrigerator, first it is cleaned and rinsed to remove dirt and debris, and then drained and spread on the kitchen towel to remove the excess moisture. And finally, it is stored in a container in the refrigerator. Whenever you need cilantro in the cooking, just chop it and use it.
| Ingredients: |
| Fresh Cilantro Leaves |
Directions:
- Cut off the cilantro stems 1 to 2 inches from the bottom using a sharp knife.
- Remove any wilted or yellow leaves.
- Put the cilantro in a large bowl filled with water and agitate a little bit to release any dirt. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes in the water, the dirt will settle down at the bottom.
- Lift the cilantro from the water and discard the dirty water. Again, fill up the bowl with clean water and do the same process. Do this process 2-3 times until the water is clear.
- Drain the excess water from the cilantro using a salad spinner (or shake the cilantro a few times to drain excess water and transfer to a colander and leave it for 15-20 minutes).
- Spread out the cilantro on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Let it air dry for 1-3 hours at room temperature or until it’s no more wet. It takes more or less time depending on the weather.
- Store the cilantro in a container in the refrigerator. It stays good for more than two weeks in the refrigerator.
- Don’t close the lid tightly or use the lid with a vent and keep the vent open. The vent prevents from excess moisture building up in the container and keeps cilantro fresh longer.
- Don’t chop the cilantro before storing otherwise it might turn black after 4-5 days. Only chop the cilantro when you needed.
Tips and Variations:
- Make sure the cilantro is not wet before storing it in a container.
- You can wrap the cilantro in a paper towel and store it in a grocery bag in the refrigerator.
- Remove wilted or yellow leaves before storing the cilantro.