Cilantro is a versatile herb adding flavor to many dishes, but it tends to spoil quickly if not stored correctly. For those aged between 45-65, preserving cilantro is essential to ensure you always have this herb on hand when cooking. Here are some friendly and straightforward methods to keep your cilantro fresh for months.
Freezing Cilantro in Ice Cube Trays
Freezing cilantro in ice cube trays is a fantastic way to preserve its flavor for an extended period. This method allows you to conveniently use portioned amounts for cooking.
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh cilantro
- Ice cube tray
- Olive oil or water
- Freezer-safe bag or container
Instructions:
- Wash and Chop the Cilantro: Rinse and chop the cilantro finely.
- Fill the Ice Cube Tray: Place chopped cilantro into each section of an ice cube tray.
- Add Olive Oil or Water: Pour olive oil or water over the cilantro to cover it.
- Freeze: Let it freeze completely.
- Store and Use: Transfer the frozen cilantro cubes to a freezer-safe bag. Label and store. Use as needed by adding a cube to your dish while cooking.
Drying Cilantro
Drying cilantro is another effective method to preserve it for months. While it may slightly reduce the vibrant flavor, it’s a practical way for long-term storage.
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh cilantro
- Paper towels or drying rack
- Airtight jar or container
Instructions:
- Wash and Dry: Rinse and pat dry the cilantro.
- Air Dry: Lay cilantro bunches on a drying rack or hang them to dry. Leave them until completely dry and crumbly.
- Store: Crumble the dried leaves into an airtight container. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Blanching and Freezing
Blanching cilantro before freezing helps retain its bright green color and freshness.
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh cilantro
- Boiling water
- Ice water
- Freezer-safe bag
Instructions:
- Blanch the Cilantro: Submerge cilantro in boiling water for a few seconds.
- Cool: Transfer to ice water to stop cooking.
- Dry and Freeze: Pat dry, place in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 4-6 months.
Cilantro Paste
Creating a cilantro paste is a flavorful way to preserve cilantro for easy use in recipes.
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh cilantro
- Olive oil
- Blender or food processor
- Airtight container or freezer-safe bag
Instructions:
- Blend the Cilantro: Blend cilantro with olive oil until smooth.
- Store: Transfer the paste to a container or bag. Freeze for up to 6 months.
- Use: Use directly from the freezer in various dishes.
By utilizing these methods, you can enjoy fresh-tasting cilantro in your cooking throughout the year. Whether you freeze, dry, or make a paste, you can savor the flavor of cilantro for months to come.
