Coriander Powder

Description

Coriander powder, also known as ground coriander, is a staple spice in culinary traditions around the world, particularly in Indian, Middle Eastern, Latin American, and Southeast Asian cuisines. It is made by finely grinding the dried seeds of the coriander plant (Coriandrum sativum), which belongs to the parsley family. The resulting powder has a light brown or golden color, a soft texture, and a warm, slightly citrusy aroma that distinguishes it from many other spices.

The flavor profile of coriander powder is gentle yet complex. It offers a combination of citrusy brightness, earthy warmth, and subtle nuttiness with faint hints of sweetness and pepper. Unlike fresh coriander leaves (commonly known as cilantro), the seeds and resulting powder have a more subdued and mellow flavor, making them ideal for blending with other spices in masalas, rubs, and spice mixes.

Coriander powder plays a vital role in tempering or seasoning. In Indian cooking, it is often used alongside turmeric, cumin, and chili powder to form the backbone of many curries, dals, and vegetable dishes. It’s typically added during the cooking process to deepen flavor and help build the dish’s base. The spice is also essential in garam masala and curry powder blends. In Mexican cuisine, coriander powder is sometimes used in stews and meat rubs, while in Middle Eastern dishes, it complements ingredients like lamb, chickpeas, and garlic beautifully.

Beyond flavor, coriander powder has a number of health benefits. It is known for aiding digestion due to its carminative properties, which help relieve gas and bloating. It also contains antioxidants, dietary fiber, iron, magnesium, and vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin K. Traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Unani use coriander for managing ailments such as indigestion, diabetes, and inflammation. It’s often brewed into teas or used in home remedies for detoxifying the body.

Coriander powder is easy to incorporate into various preparations. It can be dry-roasted to enhance its flavor and aroma before use or simply added to simmering sauces, soups, and gravies. It also works as a subtle thickening agent in certain recipes. In pickles, marinades, and spice pastes, coriander lends a warm, mellow complexity without overpowering the main ingredients.

Its aroma is released most effectively when stored properly—in airtight containers away from direct sunlight and moisture. Freshly ground coriander powder always has a more vibrant aroma compared to store-bought versions, which may lose potency over time. Many chefs prefer to buy whole coriander seeds and grind them fresh as needed.

Coriander powder’s compatibility with a wide variety of ingredients—from vegetables and legumes to meats and grains—makes it a versatile spice. It works well with cumin, fennel, mustard seeds, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and garlic. Its balancing qualities often round off the heat of chili or the sharpness of ginger in a dish.

The spice is used in vegetarian and non-vegetarian recipes alike. It enhances the flavors in paneer curries, lentil soups, stir-fried vegetables, biryanis, kebabs, and even spice-forward snacks like chaat. A small pinch can uplift the taste of soups, sauces, and dressings. In some cultures, coriander powder is even used to flavor baked goods or herbal teas.

In summary, coriander powder is not just a flavoring agent but a key element in the architecture of taste across many cuisines. Its mild yet rich flavor, health-enhancing properties, and versatility in cooking make it an essential item in every well-stocked kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a comforting dal, a tangy salsa, or a robust meat curry, coriander powder adds depth, balance, and warmth to your culinary creations.

Quantity is 5kg