Unless you are a cook, it is quite difficult to distinguish between cilantro and parsley. Since these two herbs are almost identical, it is simple to mistakenly place one in your shopping basket for the other. Therefore, let us discover the difference between Cilantro and Parsley today.
However, before discussing the difference between cilantro and parsley, let’s learn more about these herbs.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a leafy plant that is utilized as a culinary component in numerous regions of the world. The usage of cilantro’s pungent and fresh leaves enhances the taste of foods.
It is essential to remember that cilantro leaves and smashed seeds may be added to dishes while cooking or at the end of cooking since they serve the same purpose.
Note: Both cilantro and cilantro originate from the plant Coriandrum sativum. In the United States, cilantro refers to the plant’s leaves and stem, whereas cilantro refers to its dry seeds. Cilantro leaves and stems are known internationally as cilantro, while its dried seeds are known as cilantro seeds.
Parsley
Parsley is an herbaceous plant belonging to the Apiaceae family with the scientific name Petroselinum crispum. The leaves, which are a vibrant green, are used in cooking as seasonings.
The product is commonly used in the Middle East and the United States to add taste and enhance the appearance of meals.
Difference Between Cilantro and Parsley
There are a number of differences between cilantro and parsley. Among them are the following:
1. Origin
Cilantro and parsley differ significantly in their country of origin and biological properties.
Parsley is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean area and Middle Eastern countries. In tropical and subtropical locations, the plant grows yearly, but it is biennial in temperate zones.
Cilantro, on the other hand, is thought to have originated in western Asia and southern Europe. Notably, cilantro is an annual plant, meaning that it grows just once every year.
2. Physical Appearance
Both Cilantro and Parsley have long, green stems and are green in color. The leaf form separates them from one another. While Cilantro’s leaves are rather spherical, parsley’s leaves are pointed.
3. Aroma and Flavor
The best method to differentiate cilantro from parsley is by tasting and smelling them, as here is where they vary most. The mildness of parsley’s taste and aroma may make it difficult for you to recognize it based only on these characteristics.
However, if you’re deciding between cilantro and parsley, you can typically identify the difference since cilantro has a very distinct, almost metallic aroma and flavor. Some individuals feel it has a soapy taste; however, enthusiasts of the plant emphasize its citrus flavor.
4. Edible Parts
It is important to note that the edible sections of cilantro and parsley differ. Furthermore, there are notable distinctions between parsley and cilantro seeds.
The parsley seed is oval in form and contains adequate oil for therapeutic reasons.
Cilantro seeds are utilized as a flavoring agent and have a spherical form. In addition, in parsley, only the leaves and roots are edible, while the seeds are utilized for oil extraction. On the other hand, the seeds, leaves, and roots of cilantro are all edible.
5. Uses
As a garnish and flavor enhancer, parsley is a versatile ingredient that may be used in a wide variety of meals.
Chopped parsley leaves are sprinkled over hot foods to increase taste. Soups and stews are prepared using parsley roots, which are also consumed as a snack or vegetable.
The flavor of cilantro is utilized in several recipes and the manufacturing of flavored tea.
Roasting and crushing the seeds produces curry powder, which may be used to enhance the taste of any dish.
6. Nutrition
| Cilantro | Parsley | |
| Protein | 1 gram | 1 gram |
| Carbohydrates | 1 gram | 2 grams |
| Folate | 4% of the DV | 11% of the DV |
| Fat | Almost nil | Almost nil |
| Vitamin A | 38% of the DV | 47% of the DV |
| Vitamin C | 13% of the DV | 62% of the DV |
| Vitamin K | 109% of the DV | 574% of the DV |
DV = Daily Value
The table above shows the nutritional data for 28 grams of cilantro and parsley respectively.
Despite their substantial similarities, one of the primary differences between parsley and cilantro is their nutritional profile.
It is well known that parsley contains vitamins K, C, and A. In addition, higher concentrations of flavonoid, apigenin, and luteolin are present in parsley.
Cilantro leaves and seeds, on the other hand, are known to contain vitamins identical to those found in parsley, albeit in low concentration.
However, cilantro leaves and seeds include a moderate amount of nutrients and a large amount of dietary fiber.
7. Health Effects
The leaves and seeds of cilantro are rich in antioxidants. The chemical constituents of the leaves are antibacterial against salmonella.
It can help prevent or postpone spoilage. It is a classic diabetic therapy. In Iran, it is also utilized in cold remedies to relieve anxiety and sleeplessness.
Cilantro seeds and cumin seeds are boiled together, then cooled and drank as a diuretic in traditional Indian medicine.
Acne is treated with cilantro juice combined with turmeric and applied to the skin.
Tea made from parsley can be used as an enema and to lower blood pressure. Oxalic acid, a chemical implicated in the production of kidney stones, is abundant in parsley.
It is not suggested for pregnant women since it might stimulate the uterus and cause early labor, but it is recommended for nursing moms because it boosts milk supply.
Conclusion
The difference between cilantro and parsley are briefly noted below in a tabular format.
| Cilantro | Parsley | |
| Physical Appearance | Rounded leaves | Pointed leaves |
| Taste | Strong, pungent | Mild |
| Type | Annual | Annual as well as biennial |
| Origin | Europe and Asia | Middle Eastern area |
| Color | Deep green | Bright green |
| Side effects | Causes allergies in some | Can cause miscarriages |