Coriander (Dhania) is very aromatic spice. It has an earthy aroma and gives a unique flavour to the dishes. It is rich in essential oils and used both, as herb and a spice. It is member of the parsley family and is considered as one of the top five spices. All the parts of the plant are edible, fresh leaves are generally used as herb and garnishing. The dried seeds are mostly used in cooking. Coriander is also known for its excellent medicinal properties and its therapeutic effects.

Fresh coriander leaves taste differently than the coriander seeds with mild citric flavours and refreshing aroma. The leaves are often used for garnishing and added raw to the dishes before being served. Mint & Coriander Chutney made from fresh coriander leaves, Pickles and Poppadum are popular traditional condiments served in South Asian Cuisine.

Coriander seeds fall under the warm and citrusy spice category and mostly used as a base ingredient for preparing spice mixes as well as marinades. As a seasoning, the dried coriander seeds are frequently used in Asian, Hispanic and European cuisines. Crushed coriander seeds add a different flavour to the stew preparations and non-vegetarian dishes. They are also used for making spice rubs, dressings, marinades and for pickling.

Coriander powder is generally used during cooking of dishes; it is prepared by grinding dry coriander seeds in a spice grinder until it becomes a fine powder. Coriander powder need not be added at the beginning of the cooking process as Coriander seeds. You can add coriander powder to the dish midway during the cooking process for providing the required flavour to the curry. Ground coriander is t main component of various spice mixes including Garam Masala, Sambhar Masala & Rassam Powder.

Health Benefits of Coriander:

• Coriander seeds are a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The essential oil present in the seed is beneficial to cure various ailments. It regulates the blood sugar level, beneficial in treating insomnia and has anti-bacterial as well as anti-fungal properties.

• Coriander seeds soaked in drinking water helps in treating acidity and indigestion. The useful spice cures cold & flu symptoms as it is a rich source of Vitamin C and antioxidants.

• Coriander powder is a powerful spice which helps in digestion of food. It is a wonderful remedy for regulating fever when taken along with powdered aniseed. It detoxifies the body from harmful chemicals, cures skin related ailments and is also served as a summer drink.

Where to buy Whole Coriander and Coriander Powder?

You can buy Whole and Ground Coriander from any Indian Grocery Supermarket near you or order online from Value Supermarket. The versatile spice can be purchased in various packs as per your requirement. You can buy Natco Coriander seeds in 750g and 300 g pack, Natco ground coriander comes in 1 kg, 400 g and 100 g packs. If you are fond of chutneys, you can also try Ashoka Coriander Chutney 285 g.