Many people can confuse parsley and coriander leaves, but you can tell them apart quickly once you know the superficial differences between the two herbs!
Both are similar in appearance because they’re both curly and green. The main difference lies in the taste and aroma they provide to your dishes.
To help you determine which herb to use, we’ve created this guide on the difference between parsley and coriander leaves.
What is Parsley?
Parsley is a bright green biennial herb used as a garnish, seasoning, and decoration in many cuisines worldwide.
Native to the Mediterranean region, parsley is thought to have originated in Sardinia or Greece. The plant grows best in full sun and well-drained soil.
Parsley is a source of flavonoids and antioxidants, believed to help protect against chronic diseases. The two main types of parsley are curly leaf and Italian (or flat-leaf).
Curly leaf parsley is often used as a garnish, while Italian parsley is more commonly used as an herb in cooking.
In general, it is recommended that you use either type sparingly due to its intense flavor.
Parsley has been consumed since ancient times for its medicinal properties: it aids digestion and relieves gas, among other things. It is also eaten raw with salads or in sauces like chimichurri.
It can be sprinkled on top of food just before serving or added during cooking for additional flavor and texture.
What is Coriander?
Coriander is a spice made from the dried seeds of the cilantro plant, which is native to regions in southern Europe, Africa, and Asia.
The seeds have a lemony, citrusy flavor that is used in cuisines around the world.
Coriander can be used in sweet or savory dishes and is often used as a garnish.
When cooked with other ingredients, it imparts its bright citrus flavor.
Coriander is also frequently paired with black pepper for a spicy kick. It refers to one of three related plants: cilantro, Chinese parsley (also called cilantro), and Mexican coriander.
All three belong to the genus Coriandrum; cilantro is also known as Chinese parsley or fresh coriander in many regions outside Asia, mainly where there was direct contact with the Spanish Empire. So, what is the difference between parsley and coriander?
Difference Between Parsley and Coriander
While both herbs are used interchangeably in many recipes, some critical differences exist between parsley and coriander.
The major difference between parsley and coriander is that parsley has a grassy flavor, while coriander is more citrusy.
Additionally, parsley is often used as a garnish, while coriander is used more for flavor.
Finally, these two herbs have different growing cycles – parsley takes longer to mature than coriander.
So, to add some flavor to your dish, reach for the coriander. But if you want something to spruce up your plate, go with the parsley.
Coriander tends to be much more intense than parsley. Parsley is also less flavorful, so it’s usually not recommended in sauces or soups.
Parsley can also be found year-round because growing doesn’t take long. This means it can be harvested before it flowers as coriander does.
In addition, there are two types of parsley: curly leaf and flat leaf. The curly leaf is typically the type most commonly found in grocery stores, but the flat leaf has a more robust flavor and texture.
Parsley vs. Coriander – Overall Value
It depends on what you’re looking for when deciding whether parsley or coriander is the better herb based on the difference between them.
If you’re looking for an herb with a strong flavor that can hold its own in dishes, coriander is probably your best bet.
However, if you’re looking for an herb that adds a more subtle flavor or is mainly used as a garnish, parsley is probably a better choice.
In terms of overall value, though, both herbs are fairly similar. They’re both relatively cheap, easy to find, and versatile for various dishes.
Uses of Parsley and Coriander
Parsley is most commonly used as a garnish, while coriander is used more in Asian cuisine. It has a milder flavor than coriander.
Coriander is also known as cilantro. Both herbs are high in vitamins A and C.
They can be stored fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, they should be frozen or dried. Parsley leaves can be cooked like spinach or added to soups.
In contrast, coriander seeds are often used to flavor curries and other dishes from India, Mexico, and Vietnam.
Edible Parts of the Plant of Parsley and Coriander
The leaves of both plants are used as herbs; the significant difference between parsley and coriander is that they have different flavors.
Parsley is grassy and slightly sweet, while coriander is citrusy and spicy.
The roots and seeds of both plants are also edible but have different flavors. Parsley roots are milder than the leaves, while coriander roots are more aromatic.
Coriander seeds are often used in baking because of their sweetness, while parsley seeds are more bitter.
Flavor and Appearance of Parsley and Coriander
Parsley is a bright green biennial herb with a light, fresh taste and grassy notes. It is often used as a garnish or to add color to a dish.
On the other hand, Coriander is a bit more mellow in flavor with citrusy and earthy notes. It also has a slightly sweeter taste.
In terms of appearance, parsley has curly leaves, while coriander has flat, feathery ones. You can store both herbs by wrapping them in paper towels and putting them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
Conclusion
The difference between parsley and coriander does not matter when choosing which to use.
Both herbs are used in various cuisines, but parsley and coriander come from different plants.
Parsley is a biennial herb in the Apiaceae family, while coriander is an annual herb in the Araliaceae family.
These herbs also have different appearances, tastes, and smells. So, based on the difference between parsley and coriander, if you’re ever unsure which herb to use in your cooking, remember: parsley is for taste and smell, while coriander is for appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Difference Between Parsley and Coriander
Parsley is a bright green biennial herb used as a garnish, spice, or decoration. Coriander, on the other hand, is a dried seed used as a spice. In terms of appearance, parsley has curly leaves, while coriander leaves are more oval-shaped.
Parsley is much milder in taste than coriander. Parsley has a slightly grassy taste, while coriander is citrusy and tangy.
Both parsley and coriander are low in calories and fat. They contain vitamins A, C, K, and folate but differ in their vitamin content. Parsley contains a high amount of vitamin A but lacks vitamin C; coriander contains high amounts of vitamins A and C. They also have different phytonutrients: parsley contains sulforaphane, which may help prevent cancer cells from growing; coriander contains zeaxanthin, which may benefit eyesight.
Parsley is a bright green biennial herb used in many cuisines as a garnish, spice, and seasoning. Coriander, on the other hand, is the seed of the cilantro plant. It is spicy and has a more floral flavor than parsley. Both herbs are used extensively in Middle Eastern, European, and American cooking. Parsley is often used as a garnish, while coriander is used more for flavor.
