2023-09-02 20:00:35
In addition to being essential in the kitchen, fresh cilantro, parsley, and celery have the power to transform your dishes into exceptional culinary experiences. Learn how to keep them.
Last update: September 02, 2023
The kitchen is a universe where flavors and aromas merge to delight our senses. Cilantro, parsley and celery are three essential pillars that elevate our culinary creations, and always having them fresh is key so that their essence lasts in each dish we prepare.
Do you want to learn how to preserve these herbs effectively and enjoy their flavor in all its splendor? Here we present five cooking tricks that will guarantee you have these three ingredients always ready for your recipes.
How do I preserve cilantro, parsley and celery?
This question frequently arises in homes, because it is no secret to anyone that these are ingredients that, when fresh, they are of little durability; due to its high water content. That is why we present five tactics that will allow you to always keep these supplies fresh.
1. Water and paper
A versatile technique that works perfectly for cilantro, parsley, and celery is the combination of water and kitchen paper. You only have to wash these plants delicately and dry them carefully. Wrap the leaves in slightly damp kitchen paper and place them in a plastic bag.. Store them in the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator. This trick will preserve the cilantro’s vitality and aroma for longer.
2. Freshness in a bottle of water
The technique of keeping herbs in jars of water is another effective way to keep cilantro, parsley, and celery fresh. You just have to place the stems of the plants in a glass of water, as if you were presenting a bouquet of flowers; cover the leaves with a plastic bag and refrigerate. Change the water every two days to keep the cilantro fresh and full of life.
3. Freezing in ice cubes
One technique, which transcends the seasons, is freezing in ice cubes. This technique is very useful for these plants, allowing you to have their freshness at your fingertips at any time.
Finely chop the coriander and parsley leaves and place them in the wells of an ice cube tray. Fill each cavity with water and freeze. Use the frozen cubes to enhance your dishes with a touch of freshness at any time of the year. With celery the steps will be the same, however, instead of the leaves you will concentrate on the stems, cut into small pieces.
4. Infusion with olive oil
A different approach to preserving the freshness of these herbs is when infusing with olive oil. To achieve this you must chop the coriander leaves, parsley and celery, and place them in a glass jar. Cover with olive oil and seal well.
Finally, store in the refrigerator and use this flavored oil in dressings and marinades. In the case of celery, it will be perfect for flavoring stir-fries and stews.
5. Storage bags
The use of specialized storage bags can be your ally in the mission of keeping these herbs fresh. The process is simple and begins by carefully washing and drying the herbs. After place the leaves in a zip-top storage bag and remove the air, before sealing it. In the case of celery, before doing so, it is recommended to wrap the stalk in a dry paper towel. Finally, refrigerate and you will see how the coriander stays fresh for longer.
What are the characteristics of cilantro, parsley and celery?
Each of the three herbs: cilantro, parsley and celery; It has unique characteristics that make it indispensable in the kitchen. Exploring their individual profiles will allow you to make the most of their freshness and flavor in your dishes.
Cilantro
The coriander (Coriander) is known for its fresh, citrusy flavor, evoking notes of lemon and orange. Its green and jagged leaves they are essential in Mexican, Asian and Middle Eastern dishes. Its distinctive aroma adds vitality to salsas, guacamoles, and tomato-based dishes.
Both its leaves and its seeds (coriander) are used in the kitchen, offering different nuances in each form. In addition, coriander is a perfect complement to spicy and seasoned dishes, balancing flavors and adding freshness. To take advantage of its best flavor, it is advisable to harvest cilantro before it flowers, since its flavor tends to become more intense and bitter after flowering.
Parsley
Parsley (Crispy parsley) is known for its vibrant flavor and ability to enhance a wide range of dishes. With dark green leaves It comes in two varieties: smooth and curly leaf. Parsley has a double utility in the kitchen, it is used both as an ingredient in food preparation and to decorate and give elegance to the presentation.
It brings a fresh and slightly spicy flavor to soups, salads, sauces and meat and fish dishes. Its versatility allows it to be a faithful companion in a variety of recipes, pairing perfectly with other ingredients or herbs, adding depth and complexity to flavors. In addition, parsley too enriches the diet by being a source of vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as iron and calcium.
Celery
Celery (Celery) is recognized for its crunchy texture and distinctive flavor. Its fibrous stems and green leaves make it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Its unique texture is very valued in salads and raw dishes, as it adds a refreshing crunch. Celery has a slightly sweet yet earthy flavor, making it a delicious addition to soups, stews, and stir-fry dishes.
Both the stalks and the leaves of celery are used in the kitchen, allowing each part to add flavor and presentation to your dishes. In addition to its flavor and texture, celery is also a healthy ally as it is low in calories and a good resource to add hydration and freshness to your culinary creations.
Make the most of cilantro, parsley and celery
Fresh herbs are not only an essential component in the kitchen of professional chefs, but also allow you to add a touch of experience gourmet to your homemade dishes. By using fresh cilantro, parsley, and celery, you can recreate the flavors and aromas of the best restaurants in the comfort of your own home. Experiment with presentation, flavors, and combinations to take your dishes to the next level.
Master the secrets of cooking freshness and enjoy each bite with the intensity of these essential herbs. With these tips, your kitchen will be an oasis of fresh flavors, ready to make a difference in your culinary creations.
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