Cilantro is an herb that is widely used in both culinary and medicinal applications. The seeds of cilantro, known as coriander or dhania, are particularly versatile in cooking, adding flavor and aroma to a variety of dishes. They can also be stored for later use, making them a convenient tool for cooks who want to prepare dishes with a unique flavor.
Harvest Cilantro Seeds
Harvesting cilantro seeds is a relatively straightforward process, although there are some considerations that should be taken into account.
- If the summer is hot, sunny, and dry, you will get coriander seeds by early to mid-September. Collect coriander (cilantro) seeds only when they become a characteristic brown color. Tie the stems in bundles and hang them to dry in a well-ventilated room, and spread a film or sheets of paper below to make it easier to collect the seeds.
- After the coriander seeds are fully ripe, their color changes from green to brownish-brown, and the readiness to harvest the seeds can be determined by the familiar taste, by the way, when growing “your” coriander, the seeds are much more fragrant. Once the seeds are fully ripe, separate them on paper in any wide dish.
- The collected coriander seeds should be sifted through a sieve to separate them from the remains of the herb.
What do Cilantro Seeds Look Like?
The harvested cilantro seeds are small and round, yellow-brown in color. They have a slightly pungent taste and smell like cilantro.
How to Save Cilantro Seeds
To prepare the seeds for storage, they should be thoroughly dried. Spread them out on a paper towel or newspaper and let them sit in a dry and well-ventilated room until completely dry.
Once the seeds are completely dry, store them in an airtight container, such as a Mason jar with a tight-fitting lid or a vacuum-sealed bag.
The optimal conditions for storing cilantro seeds include a temperature between 40°F and 55°F, with low relative humidity (less than 60%). Seeds should be stored away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat to reduce the risk of spoilage. Storing them in the refrigerator is not recommended.
Shelf Life of Cilantro Seeds
The shelf life of cilantro seeds can vary depending on the storage conditions, but generally speaking, they will last for up to two years with proper storage. If stored in optimal conditions and kept away from moisture, light, and heat sources, cilantro seeds can remain viable for a longer period of time.