Is Cilantro the Same as Coriander?

In the world of herbs and spices, few ingredients spark as much confusion—and debate—as cilantro and coriander. Are they the same plant? Why do they have different names? And why do some people love it while others can’t stand the taste. Let’s break it down.

Same Plant, Different Parts

The short answer: Yes, cilantro and coriander come from the same plant, Coriandrum sativum. However, the terms refer to different parts of the plant, and the terminology varies depending on where you are in the world.

Cilantro refers to the fresh, leafy green part of the plant.

Coriander usually refers to the seeds of the plant, which are dried and used as a spice.

In some places, like the United States and Canada, “cilantro” is used to describe the leaves, while “coriander” means the seeds. In the UK, Europe, and much of Asia, “coriander” refers to the entire plant—leaves, stems, and seeds.

Cilantro: The Fresh Herb

Cilantro leaves are soft, bright green, and look a lot like flat-leaf parsley. They have a strong, citrusy, and slightly peppery flavor that adds brightness to a wide range of dishes—think salsa, guacamole, curries, and noodle soups.

However, cilantro is also one of the most polarizing herbs in the culinary world. Some people detect a fresh, lemony flavor, while others describe it as soapy or metallic. This is largely due to genetics—certain people have a variation in their smell receptors that makes them more sensitive to aldehydes in cilantro.

Coriander: The Spice

Coriander seeds, on the other hand, have a completely different flavor profile. When dried, they develop a warm, nutty, and slightly citrusy taste with subtle sweetness. Ground coriander is widely used in spice blends like garam masala, curry powder, and ras el hanout. Whole coriander seeds are also used in pickling, marinades, and spice rubs.

Toasting the seeds before grinding can enhance their aroma and give them a deeper, more complex flavor.

Culinary Uses Around the World

Cilantro and coriander seeds play an important role in culinary traditions around the world, adding unique flavors and aromas to a wide variety of dishes. Cilantro is widely used in Asian, Latin American, European, and Middle Eastern cuisines. In Asia, it is a traditional seasoning in countries like China, Thailand, and India, commonly added to cold dishes, hot entrees, soups, and noodles. In Latin America, cilantro is a key ingredient in Mexican salsas and guacamole. In Europe, it features prominently in Mediterranean cuisine, such as Greek salads and Italian pastas.

Coriander seeds are equally valued in cooking. In India, they are a vital component of curry powder, bringing warmth and spice to a range of curry dishes. In Europe, coriander seeds are used in baking, such as in German sausages and breads. They are also essential in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine, often included in traditional spice blends and dishes like tagine. Whether it's fine seasoning in Asia or baking and stewing in Europe and North Africa, both cilantro and coriander seeds showcase their distinctive culinary value across cultures.

Nutrition and Benefits

Both cilantro and coriander are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients. Cilantro leaves are high in vitamins A, C, and K. Coriander seeds are a good source of dietary fiber, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine have long used both for their digestive, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties.

Final Thoughts

So, is cilantro the same as coriander? Yes—and no.

They come from the same plant, but the different parts have distinct flavors and culinary roles. Understanding the terminology helps ensure you’re using the right ingredient, especially when working with global recipes or ordering in bulk.

Sourcing High-Quality Coriander Products

At Shundi, we offer a range of premium dried cilantro—sourced with care and processed to meet the needs of food manufacturers, seasoning brands, and culinary professionals. With strict quality control and global certifications, our ingredients deliver consistency, safety, and flavor at scale.

Looking for spice blends for your product line? Contact us to learn more.