Cilantro!

"Then God said, 'Let the land produce vegetation; seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.'  And it was so.  And God saw that IT WAS GOOD."  Genesis 1:11-12

It seems like people either LOVE cilantro, or they hate it.  I remember my first experience with cilantro, when eating Pho for the first time about 11 years ago, and thought, "WHAT is that?"  Not being accustomed to its distinct scent and flavor, I initially steered clear of it.  But after I started noticing its flavor profile in my favorite Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes, I quickly began to develop a taste for it.  The next thing I, well my husband, knew~ I was adding it to almost every meal :o)  The great thing about cilantro, is that you can purchase a bunch for less than a buck (details on how I store it below)!  

Here are some simple dishes (will post recipes soon!!) that I enhanced with one of my favorite ingredients~ Cilantro! 

White Chicken Chili

More white chicken chili

Fideo~ Mexican Spaghetti (Mrs. Marcela Garza's recipe)

Corn Tortilla Classic Taco

Roast Beef Potato Omelet

Turkey Feta Crepe

Korean Beef Patty Salad

Thai Cilantro Chicken

Grilled Chicken with Pico de Gallo

How I store Cilantro:

With the hot and dry Texas weather, cilantro is not the easiest herb to grow, especially since it prefers cool temperatures and plenty of water.  Until I figure out the best way to grow and maintain it, purchasing a fresh bunch at the grocery store is CHEAP and easy!  I've tried many different ways to make the cilantro last longer, and this method seems to be working pretty well.  These pictures were taken about 10 days after purchase~ and the cilantro was still fresh!  I wrap it in a damp paper towel, and as shown in the pictures, just place it in a container (I used a bread pan) and cover with plastic wrap.  And then store it in the refrigerator.  It's important that the cilantro stays covered so it retains its moisture, otherwise it will shrivel up and dry out.  Before serving it, always give it a good rinse!  It goes really well with lime and onions!!