CORIANDER SANTO

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), also known as “coriander santo” in Mexico and Central America, has a rich and ancient history that dates back thousands of years. Here’s a look at its history:

• Origins
  Antiquity: Coriander is native to the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. Evidence of coriander has been found in archaeological sites dating back to 5000 BC in Egypt, where it was used as a spice and medicinal plant. The Egyptians even placed it in tombs to accompany the deceased.
  Use in Ancient Cultures
• Greece and Rome: The Greeks and Romans also appreciated coriander. They used it in their cooking and attributed medicinal properties to it. Hippocrates and Dioscorides mentioned coriander in their writings for its therapeutic virtues.
  Expansion
• Middle Ages: During the Middle Ages, coriander spread throughout Europe. It was used in cooking, but also in medicinal potions, often considered a remedy for various ailments.

Discoveries: When European explorers began traveling to the New World, they brought cilantro with them. It quickly found its way into the cuisines of indigenous populations, especially in Mexico.

• Coriander Santo: In Mexico, coriander is often called “coriander santo” or simply “cilantro.” It is a key ingredient in Mexican cuisine, used in dishes like salsas, tacos, and soups. Its fresh, citrusy flavor is enjoyed in many traditional dishes.
• Properties and Uses
  Culinary and Medicinal: In addition to its culinary uses, coriander also has medicinal properties. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestive effects. It is sometimes used to help relieve digestive issues or as a detoxifier.

Today, cilantro is grown and used around the world, prized for its distinctive flavor and health benefits. Whether in Asian, Mediterranean, or Latin American cuisine, cilantro remains a staple ingredient, reflecting its rich and varied history.

Coriander santo, or coriander (Coriandrum sativum), has several recognized medicinal properties. Here is an overview of its benefits:

• Antioxidant
  Cilantro is rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C and other phytochemicals, which help fight oxidative stress in the body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Anti-inflammatory properties
  It contains essential oils, such as coriander, which have anti-inflammatory effects. This can help relieve joint pain and inflammation.
• Improved Digestion

Coriander is often used to improve digestion. It can help reduce bloating, gas, and other digestive discomforts, thanks to its carminative properties.

• Detoxification
  It is known for its detoxifying effects, helping to remove heavy metals and toxins from the body. This can be beneficial for overall health and organ function.
•  Blood Sugar Regulation
  Studies suggest that cilantro may help regulate blood sugar levels, which may be beneficial for people with diabetes.
• Antimicrobial Effects
  Coriander has antimicrobial properties that can help fight certain bacteria and fungi, thereby aiding in digestive health.
• Benefits for the Skin
  Used in infusions or topical applications, coriander can help treat certain skin conditions thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Immune System Support
  Thanks to its richness in vitamins and minerals, coriander helps to strengthen the immune system, helping the body to better defend itself against infections.

Use
Coriander can be consumed fresh, dried, or made into a tea to reap its benefits. It is commonly used in cuisines around the world, providing a unique flavor while also offering health benefits.

In summary, coriander santo is a plant with multiple medicinal benefits, in addition to its culinary use, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet.

Cilantro, especially in Mexican cuisine (where it is called "cilantro" or "coriander santo"), is an essential ingredient. Here are some traditional ways to use it in cooking:

•  Salsa Verde
  A fresh sauce made with green tomatoes, onions, chili peppers, cilantro and lime. It goes perfectly with tacos, enchiladas and grilled meats.

Ingredients :
500 g green tomatoes
1 onion
2-3 chili peppers (to taste)
50 g fresh coriander
Juice of 1 lime
Salt
Instructions :
Boil the tomatoes and peppers until tender.
Drain and mix with onion, coriander, lemon juice and salt.
Serve chilled.

• Tacos
  Cilantro is often used as a topping in tacos, along with meat (such as beef, chicken, or pork), onions, and sometimes radishes or lime.

Instructions :
Prepare your meat (grilled or cooked).
Fill warm corn tortillas with the meat.
Add chopped onions, fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

•  Tortilla Soup
  This spicy soup is topped with tortilla chips, avocado, cheese and cilantro.

Ingredients :
1 liter of chicken broth
2 tomatoes
1 onion
2 cloves of garlic
1 chili pepper (to taste)
100 g fresh coriander
Tortillas cut into pieces
Avocado and cheese for garnish
Instructions :
Brown the onion, garlic and chilli in a saucepan.
Add the tomatoes and broth, then simmer.
Serve with tortilla chips, avocado, cheese and cilantro.

• Coriander Rice
  A simple dish where the rice is flavored with coriander and lime.

Ingredients :
1 cup rice
2 cups of water
50 g fresh coriander, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt
Instructions :
Rinse the rice and cook it in water according to the instructions.
Once cooked, stir in the coriander and lemon juice.
Serve hot as an accompaniment.
5. Salads
Cilantro is often added to salads, especially black bean salads or fruit salads.

Instructions :
Mix your favorite vegetables (like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions).
Add chopped coriander and season with lemon and olive oil.

These traditional preparations highlight the unique, fresh flavor of cilantro, which is essential in Mexican and other Latin American cuisines. Enjoy!

Did you know that;

• Coriander actually has a unique characteristic that makes it suitable for a variety of climates, including colder regions like Quebec. Here are some things to consider:
• Cold Resistance
  Hardiness: Although cilantro is an annual plant, it can tolerate cool temperatures, making it a viable candidate for spring and fall gardening and part of the winter in Quebec. It can survive temperatures down to about -5 °C.
• Crop Cycle: Coriander can be sown in early spring, when temperatures begin to warm, or in late summer for a fall harvest. This allows you to enjoy its flavor before the harsher frosts of winter.
• Winter Protection
  To maximize the harvest, some gardeners opt for protective techniques, such as plastic tunnels or cloches, to extend the growing season and protect plants from frost.
  In short, coriander is a versatile plant that can adapt to Quebec's climatic conditions, bringing a fresh and tasty touch to many dishes.

Our seeds are vigorous, open-pollinated and adapted to the Quebec climate.

• Species: Coriandrum sativum (annual)
• Sowing: Early March-April (You can grow indoors year-round)
• Seeds: 15-20 seeds per pot, final transplanting into an outdoor pot or into the ground around mid-May. If you want to have coriander during the cold season, put your plant in the ground in a cold frame greenhouse or in a greenhouse outside around October.
• Sowing depth: 0.5 cm
• Germination time: 10-15 days
• Soil: Poor, humus-rich, loose and drained
• Location: Sun and tolerates shade and cold very well
• Spacing between plants: 10-15 cm
• Height at maturity 35-45 cm
• Maturity: 40-50 days
• Seed per envelope: +/- 100

Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.