In this blog we are going to tell you about Difference Between Cilantro And Italian Parsley, so read this blog carefully to get the complete information.
As we all know that each country, state or family can have their special or different kinds of cuisines and dishes. In any food item, ingredients play a very crucial role. Adding a different ingredient to food can make a small or big change in the taste of the dish. Ingredients like vegetables, spices, or herbs come in different flavors, colors, and nutritional value. Two such popular herbs are Cilantro and Italian Parsley which can make your food item more delicious. Most people may have heard about them. But do you know the differences? Continue reading the article to know what Cilantro and Italian Parsley are and how they differ from each other.
What is Cilantro?
Cilantro is one of the most popular herbs that is widely used in many parts of the world. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and in scientific terms, it is also known as Coriandrum Sativum. It is an annual herb which means it completes its life cycle in one season. Each part of the plant including the stem, seeds, and leaves is edible. People preferred to consume dried seeds and fresh leaves in cooking as a main ingredient or for garnishing. It has a strong aroma and flavor which can bring wonderful taste to your dish. However, few people may also be allergic to this herb. It is very popular in America and as it is used in different parts of the world, so it has different names. Its other names include coriander, Dhaniya, and also Chinese Parsley. It is very nutritious as it provides several vitamins like A, C, E, K, etc., and many dietary minerals. It also has many health benefits and this is the reason it is used worldwide.
What is Italian Parsley?
Italian Parsley is a form of popular herb known as parsley. It also belongs to the Apiaceae family and in scientific terms, it is known as Petroselinum neapolitanum. It is a biennial herb which means the plant takes 2 years to complete its biological cycle. It is also known as the flat-leaf parsley as its leaves are flat, dark, and pointy. Though the whole plant is edible, its leaves are commonly used. Its leaves can add richness to your food. The plant is rich in iron and vitamins and is a low-calorie herb. It can be used as a natural breath sweetener and also helps in controlling cholesterol. It has a good level of antioxidants. It also has other health benefits and is used in salads, dips, pasta sauces, and other cuisines.
Main Differences Between Cilantro And Italian Parsley
The following are the main differences between Cilantro and Italian Parsley as mentioned below:
- Cilantro is a herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family and is an annual plant while Italian Parsley is a form of parsley herb which also belongs to the Apiaceae family and is a biennial plant.
- The scientific name for cilantro is Coriandrum Sativum while the scientific name for Italian Parsley is Petroselinum neapolitanum.
- The leaves of cilantro are round, lacy, and light or dark green while the leaves of Italian parsley are flat, pointy, and dark green.
- Cilantro is also known as Chinese parsley, coriander, or dhaniya whereas Italian parsley is also known as flat-leaf parsley.
- Native regions of Cilantro include Southern Europe, Northern Africa to southwestern Asia while native regions of Italian parsley are Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.
- Cilantro is a Spanish word that is derived from the Latin word ‘Coriandrum’ while Italian Parsley is derived from the Greek word ‘Petros’ which means rock as it is grown in rocky terrain.
Conclusion
People usually get confused as there are many Herbs and leafy vegetables which look the same. But you can identify the difference by their name, taste, and where and when you can use them. Using them interchangeably can change the taste of the entire dish. Moreover, certain people are also allergic to certain herbs and thus it is important to use them according to their tastes and preferences. Both Cilantro and Italian parsley are two herbs from the Apiaceae family which are known for not only their tastes but also for their health benefits. We hope that this article was helpful and you have understood the difference between the two herbs.
I Hope this blog is sufficient enough to provide the information about Difference Between Cilantro And Italian Parsley. Thanks for reading this blog.