Produce Briefs...
Mangosteen
The Purple mangosteen, botanical name Garcinia magostana, simply referred to as mangosteen, is an ultra-tropical slow growing evergreen tree that is cultivated for its edible fruit.
White Corn
White corn is a sweet corn variety. Its ears are wrapped in tightly layered pale lime green to white husks. One ear of corn can contain up to 400 kernels growing in rows lengthwise.
Seasons/Availability
Cilantro available year round.
Current Facts
Cilantro is the leaves and stems of the coriander plant, also known as Chinese Parsley. An annual herb and member of the carrot family, cilantro is the most widely used, aromatic, leafy herb in the world. It is an indispensable herb in the culinary landscape with no substitute that can simulate its flavor.
Description/Taste
Although slightly resembling flat leaf parsley in appearance, cilantro can be distinguished by its unmistakable aroma and flavor. Cilantro offers citrus overtones with a flavor that can be bright, earthy and pungent, though its pungency is often contested to border on "soapiness". If left to go to seed, the plant produces white delicate flowers from the cilantro leaves that have the exact essence of cilantro with a sweet floral finish.
Applications
Cilantro is most prolific in Latin, Asian, North African and Indian cuisine. Though it may be used as a garnish, both the stems and leaves are often a main ingredient in regional dishes. Use cilantro with yogurt, cheese, tropical fruit, tomatoes, corn, potatoes, onions, chiles or in combination with fresh herbs. Pair with meats, seafood, poultry, tofu and noodles. Cilantro is a delicate herb, and should be kept dry and refrigerated until use.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Cilantro is widely used throughout Asia, India, North Africa and in Latin America where it is an integral ingredient in fresh salsas and sauces.
Geography/History
Cilantro is very defined by its original roots as it is historically found in North Africa, Asia and Southern Europe, regions where the plant's seeds, roots, stems and leaves are all used for culinary purposes still today.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Cilantro. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Epicurious |
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Skirt Steak with Cilantro Garlic Sauce |
