Coriander seeds are the dried, round seeds of the cilantro plant, which are light brown in color and offer a citrusy, lemony flavor when crushed. They are a staple in spice blends and are widely used in cooking for their warm, nutty, and spicy flavors. Essential in the culinary traditions of India, the Middle East, and Latin America, coriander seeds are also recognized for their digestive benefits and antioxidant properties.

Sample Recipe: Roasted Chicken with Coriander Seeds

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 chicken breasts

Instructions:

• Grind the coriander seeds using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
• Combine ground coriander with garlic, turmeric, chili powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make a marinade.
• Spread the marinade over the chicken breasts and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
• Grill or fry chicken breasts over medium heat until fully cooked.
• Serve with rice or a fresh salad.

Curiosities:

• Culinary Variety: They are used whole for pickling or ground into powder for spice blends.
• Health Benefits: Known to aid in digestion and reduce inflammation.
• Cultural Significance: A vital ingredient in many spice blends such as garam masala in India and harissa in North Africa.