Coriander, also known as cilantro, is a staple herb in many kitchens, cherished for its fresh, vibrant flavor that complements a wide range of dishes. However, keeping it fresh can be a challenge, as it tends to wilt and lose its vigor quickly after purchase. If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy crisp, garden-fresh coriander all year round, this simple preservation trick is for you. Let’s explore how you can preserve coriander so effectively that it remains fresh for up to a year.

Why Preserve Coriander? Preserving coriander not only extends its shelf life but also helps you reduce waste and save money. With this method, you can have fresh-tasting coriander at your fingertips, ready to enhance your meals whenever you desire, without the need for frequent trips to the grocery store.

What You’ll Need:

• Fresh coriander

• Paper towels

• Zip-lock freezer bags

• A marker for labeling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coriander:

   • Begin by gently washing the coriander to remove any dirt or residue. It’s important to be thorough yet delicate to avoid damaging the leaves.

   • Pat the coriander dry with paper towels. Make sure it’s completely dry, as any remaining moisture can lead to freezer burn or ice crystals forming.

2. Chop the Coriander:

   • Using a sharp knife, finely chop the coriander. You can decide how finely you want to chop it based on your personal preference and the dishes you plan to use it for.

3. Prepare for Freezing:

   • Lay out a piece of paper towel and spread your chopped coriander evenly over it. Roll the paper towel loosely to encase the coriander. This step helps absorb any excess moisture and protects the delicate leaves from damage.

4. Bag and Freeze:

   • Place the rolled paper towels with coriander into zip-lock freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

   • Label the bags with the date, so you know how long the coriander has been stored.

5. Usage:

   • When you need coriander, simply take out the desired amount from the freezer. The coriander will defrost quickly at room temperature or can be added directly to dishes like soups and curries.

Benefits: This preservation method ensures that the coriander remains fresh and retains its flavor and nutritional properties. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the herb off-season and makes your cooking routine more convenient and efficient.

Conclusion: Preserving coriander using this simple freezer method is an excellent way to ensure that you always have this flavorful herb on hand. It’s easy, effective, and a great trick to keep up your sleeve, especially if you love cooking with fresh herbs. Try this method and enjoy the taste of fresh coriander all year round!