The Ultimate Guide to Storing Cilantro without Losing its Flavor

Introduction

When it comes to cooking with cilantro, freshness is key. Cilantro is a delicate herb that can wilt quickly if not stored correctly, causing it to lose its signature fragrance and flavor. Keeping cilantro fresh for longer will not only save you money, but also improvise the taste of your dishes. This article will give you a comprehensive guide to storing cilantro at home.

How to Store Cilantro to Keep it Fresh for Weeks: Tips and Tricks

Cilantro is a versatile herb, but it has a short shelf life, and can go bad quickly if not stored properly. Here are some tips and tricks for keeping cilantro fresh:

Using Airtight Containers

Cilantro needs to be kept in an airtight container to prevent moisture from building up, which can cause it to wilt and decay. Ziplock bags or airtight containers can be used to maintain cilantro’s freshness.

Placing Cilantro in the Fridge as soon as possible after purchase

After bringing it home, store cilantro in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Keeping it in the fridge can help retain its freshness, but only if it’s stored correctly.

Storing Cilantro Alongside Other Fresh Vegetables

Placing cilantro alongside other fresh vegetables and herbs like parsley, celery, and lettuce in the refrigerator can make it last longer. This trick helps to maintain the freshness of cilantro and absorb the moisture in the container.

Cilantro Storage 101: 5 Easy Steps to Keep It Fresh

If you want to keep your cilantro fresh for the long haul, follow these five simple steps:

Snipping Off the Bottom of the Cilantro Stems

Start by snipping off the bottom of the cilantro stems with a sharp knife. Be sure to remove any flowers or buds in the process that can cause early rotting.

Filling a Jar with Water and Placing the Stems Inside

Next, fill a jar with water about 1-2 inches and place the cilantro stems inside, cutting down enough to make sure that only the stems are in the water and not the leaves.

Covering the Jar with a Plastic Bag and Storing It in the Fridge

After the cilantro stems are in the jar with water, cover the jar with a plastic bag to trap in moisture and keep the herbs from drying out. Store it in the fridge, and your cilantro will remain fresh for up to two weeks.

The Best Ways to Store Cilantro in Your Fridge or Freezer

There are different ways of storing cilantro, and the method you choose depends on how long you want to store it.

Tips for Fridge Storage

Using Damp Paper Towels to Keep Cilantro Hydrated

Cilantro stored in the refrigerator tends to lose its moisture quickly, leading to wilting and rotting. Therefore, to keep it fresh for longer, wrap the cilantro loosely in damp paper towels. This will keep the herbs hydrated and prevent them from drying out.

Keeping Cilantro Away from the Back of the Fridge, Which Can Freeze It

The cold air from the fridge’s back can freeze the cilantro and ruin its taste. Therefore, avoid putting cilantro in the back of the fridge. Instead, store it in the front or middle section.

Tips for Freezer Storage

Blending Cilantro With Oil or Water and Freezing in Ice Cube Trays

You can freeze cilantro cubes, which is an excellent option for those who want to use cilantro over an extended period. Blend cilantro with water or oil and pour the mixture into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes into a container and return them to the freezer.

Freezing Cilantro Straight From the Store in Its Original Packaging

Another option is to simply freeze the entire bunch of cilantro in its original packaging. Place it in a freezer bag and remove as much air as possible. The cilantro should last for up to three months in the freezer.

Preserving Cilantro: A Guide to Storing It for Longer

If you want to preserve cilantro for longer, there are a few methods you can use:

Drying Cilantro in the Sun or Air

Drying cilantro is an age-old method of preserving the herb. This technique involves removing excess moisture by leaving it in direct sunlight, on trays, or in a dehydrator.

Dehydrating Cilantro in the Oven or Dehydrator

Another way to dry cilantro is to use an oven or dehydrator. After washing the cilantro, spread it out on a baking sheet or dehydrator tray and heat it at 120°F to 140°F until the leaves become brittle.

Pickling Cilantro in Vinegar

Pickling is another way to store cilantro for more extended periods. You can pickled cilantro in vinegar or lime juice. This process involves soaking the cilantro in a vinegar or lime juice solution for three to four days, and then storing it in the fridge for up to two months.

Cilantro Storage Options: Which One Is Best to Prevent Wilting?

All of the storage options mentioned thus far are good for keeping cilantro fresh, but the best method for preventing wilting and retaining its flavor is the one that suits you.

3 DIY Cilantro Storage Methods to Keep It Fresh for Longer

If you’re looking for DIY storage methods, try these three:

Preserving Cilantro in Salt

Preserving cilantro in salt is similar to other methods where it involves covering the cilantro entirely with salt in a jar and refrigerating it. The salt dehydrates the cilantro helping it to last longer.

Storing Cilantro in a Homemade Vinegar Solution

This method involves making a vinegar solution by mixing water and vinegar, soak the cilantro and refrigerate it.

Making Homemade Cilantro Pesto

If you want to enjoy cilantro with a similar taste to a spring mix pesto, you can blend together cilantro, garlic, salt, olive oil, and parmesan cheese. Once made, put it in a clean jar with a layer that covers the top of the pesto.