Properties of coriander: the strange taste of Chinese parsley

Properties of coriander: the strange taste of Chinese parsley

Coriander, or Chinese parsley, is almost identical to our common parsley. It tastes definitely stronger and more flavored. Actually, nobody loves it  and, in some cases, it may even result a bit nauseating.

Its shape reminds the common parsley, but concerning its flavor it results sharp and consistent.

Nevertheless, the properties of coriander are many and different. It is used in international cooking and appreciated almost everywhere. In fact, in Italy, it is used less than everywhere else, because of its smell that really differs from parsley. Maybe its little use in Italy is due to its unique smell that not everybody may appreciate.

Properties of coriander

According to different people, this herb has good properties. The health benefits of coriander include treatment of digestion, it provides antibacterial effects, and, if consumed as infusion, it helps to eliminate intestinal gas. Coriander should be use regularly to treat lack of appetite. It is also a great tonic which stimulates nervous system activities.

As regard to its culinary use, coriander is used widely in Indian, Greek and Asian cooking.

Nutritional values

An amount of 100 g of coriander contains:

•       Calories: 23

•       Proteins 2,14 g

•       Carbohydrates 3,60

•       Sugar 0,88

•       Fat 0,50

•       cholesterol 0 mg

•       Fiber 2,8 g

•       Sodium 45 mg.

These properties of coriander are not bad at all. Only its taste can be considered soapy and pungent, if compared to the common parsley.

Moreover, finding it is not always easy in Italy. Greengrocers, as well as supermarkets, hardly sell it. In London, instead, you can find it easily in any grocery store.