Cilantro is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. Although this herb is most commonly associated with Asian cuisine, it could be used to enhance the flavor of any dish. Let see How Long Does Cilantro Last.

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Cilantro is another one of those types of herbs that doesn’t last long after it’s been harvested. As a result, you may be wondering how long does cilantro last. 

harvesting cilantro growing in my garden

                                                  

How Long Does Cilantro Last

 

Cilantro is one of those herbs which, if it’s not used instantly, will go bad. As a result, there are a few ways to keep them fresher and lasting as long as necessary. Keep dried cilantro in an airtight jar in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as the pantry or cupboard.

Fresh cilantro in a wooden box

You should be able to retain the cilantro for longer if you do it this way. Dried cilantro, on the other hand, will lose flavor over time, even though it can last for a long period. As a result, after a year, feel the cilantro with your fingers to see if it’s still good. Here are some easy methods to preserve Cilantro:

 

Cilantro should actually last seven to ten days in the refrigerator. and it will keep for four to six months in the freezer. Fresh cilantro will survive no more than three hours at room temp on a cutting board. Cilantro, can last for one year if dry and then preserve in an airtight box.

Keeping the cilantro in the refrigerator in a glass jar with water does keep it fresh longer than when I just store it in a bag in my refrigerator bin. What usually happens is the outer leaves get wilted and start decaying. 

Cilantro Preserving Methods

In Refrigerator:

 

  • The method is to store them in the refrigerator. Take a container with a height of at least five inches. Fill the cup or jar halfway with tap water and set it aside.
  • Using a clean paper towel, pat the cilantro dry.
  • Remove the leaves off the lower stems.
  • Fill the jar with water and add each herb. Using a clean plastic bag, drape the cilantro over the container halfway.
  • Wrap a rubber band around. Place the container in the refrigerator.
  • After several days you can change the water if it gets discolored.

Chef’s Tips

  • You may be wondering why the cilantro needs to be covered? The refrigerator air is very drying so your cilantro needs some kind of protection.
  • It is important that you keep the cilantro in the water refrigerated, if you leave it on the counter, in about 3 days the leaves will start to change their color and get wilted.
  • To cut down on the use of plastic, wash the bag and reuse it 
  • Make sure your refrigerator’s temperature is not too cold, it will damage the leaves of your cilantro.
  • Do not use a salad spinner to dry your cilantro leaves, they are very delicate. Instead, use a paper towel.

        cilantro for the refrigerator                                        

In Freezer:

 

When it comes to storing cilantro for a long period, the freezer is an excellent alternative. When it comes to preserving cilantro, there are two options. One method is to freeze it in a plastic bag, while the second method is to freeze cilantro in an ice tray. Both techniques are effective in keeping cilantro fresh while it is frozen. If you ever need to freeze a lot of cilantro, storing it in plastic bags is the best option. Ice trays are an effective way for a small portion of cilantro.

  • Wash the cilantro for about twenty seconds under clean water.
  • Drying the cilantro by placing it in a basket. Place the cilantro on towels and press it dry lightly.
  • Remove the leaves from the cilantro stalk using a sharp knife. To prevent shredding the cilantro, use sharp scissors ad a knife.
  • Remove all of the leaves and discard the stalks. Place a baking sheet on a clean tray and spread the cilantro. Freeze for 2 hours.
  • This will allow the leaves to freeze independently, preventing them from sticking together. Place the frozen leaves in a clean plastic freezer bag. 
  • Tighten the bag after squeezing out all of the air.

 

cilantro leaves, on baking sheet                                                 

Dry the Cilantro:

 

If you want to keep cilantro for more than a year, the best technique is to dry it first.

  • Preheat oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Under clean water, wash thoroughly the cilantro. Allow for a few mins for the cilantro to overflow dry.
  • Pat the area dry using a paper towel. Remove the stalks’ leaves. Take a tray and wipe it clear of debris before placing a sheet of baking paper on it.
  • Arrange the cilantro leaves on the baking sheet in an equal layer.
  • Place sheet for 30-40 minutes in the oven.
  • Set the oven temp to a lower level or remove them if they begin to burn or change color.
  • Remove the cilantro from the cookie sheet and set it aside to cool.
  • Scrape the leaves off the sheet into an airtight jar. To avoid breaking them, carefully place them into a glass jar. 
  • Close the lid and cool it to keep it preserved.   

dried cilantro in glass jar                               

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Conclusion:

 

This vegetable can prevent you from food poisoning, it can also harm you if you eat the wrong one. This vegetable has several health benefits, including aiding in the reduction of anxiety and the induction of sleep and relaxation.

It aids in the prevention of oxidative stress and the elimination of heavy metals from the body. Cilantro also aids in the relief of digestive discomfort and the prevention of urinary tract infections. So, you must preserve cilantro with the above best methods.

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