Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) seeds
November 19, 2009 • Hello. I am currently out of the country and unable to respond to comments and e-mails. Rest assured, however, that future posts have been scheduled so new recipes will go live almost everyday during my absence. I'll be back soon with lots of stories and photos. Ciao for now! ~ ConnieUpdated on August 27, 2009
Native to southwestern Asia west to north Africa (others say it is native to the Middle East), the coriander plant grows to about 20 inches in height. All parts are edible — even the roots — but most people are only familiar with the leaves, popularly known as cilantro or coriander leaves, and the seeds. Each coriander “pod” contains two seeds. The flavor of these seeds, sold whole or ground, has been described as reminiscent of both orange peel and sage. Coriander is one of the five spices that make up curry powder.

There are a lot of myths associated with coriander. Some are nothing but amusing (my grandmother believed that boiling coriander seeds and using the water for bath ensures faster recovery from chicken pox) but there have been interesting studies that may just elevate the coriander from being a mere folk remedy to a potential health wonder.
Recent studies have supported its use as a stomach soother for both adults and colicky babies. Coriander contains an antioxidant that helps prevent animal fats from turning rancid. It also contains substances that kill meat-spoiling bacteria and fungi. These same substances in Cilantro also prevent infection in wounds. Coriander has been shown to improve tummy troubles of all kinds, from indigestion to flatulence to diarrhea. Weak coriander tea may be given to children under age 2 for colic. It’s safe for infants and may relieve their pain and help you get some much-needed sleep. Cilantro and Coriander contain substances that kill certain bacteria and fungi, thereby preventing infections from developing in wounds. Sprinkle some coriander Seed on minor cuts and scrapes after thoroughly washing the injured area with soap and water. Intriguing new studies suggest that coriander has anti-inflammatory effects. Since the pain of arthritis is cause by inflammation coriander oil may help you. [The Epicentre]
For use in cooking, coriander seeds are best purchased whole as they lose their flavor faster in powdered form. The seeds are brittle and easy enough to pound to break the shell and get the two seeds inside. Use a mortar and pestle to coarsely grind the seeds then use immediately.
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Some related discussions...[...] used finger chilis; use bird’s eye chilis for a spicier beef rendang), roughly chopped 1 tbsp. of coriander seeds 1 tbsp. of black peppercorns 12 shallots (i.e., sibuyas Tagalog), roughly chopped a piece of [...]