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Coriander leaves, or dhania, may be a simple kitchen ingredient, but they are also among the most fragile and delicate. You get it fresh and fragrant from the market, only to find it withered and soggy in a couple of days. This tender herb, rich in antioxidants and essential oils, deserves better care because fresh coriander does not just garnish a dish; it elevates the entire flavour. Storing it properly guarantees that it remains green, fresh, aromatic, and maintains the nutritional value for days, even weeks.
The technique lies in maintaining moisture and the airflow, the two key aspects that can make or break the shelf life of coriander. With a few easy, smart storage hacks, you can easily extend its freshness and avoid the wastage, saving both your herbs as well as your money. So, before you throw another bunch of coriander in the fridge, here are your top tips on how to keep it as green and vibrant as the day you bought it.
Store In An Airtight Box
After washing thoroughly and drying the coriander, cover it loosely with a paper towel or napkin and place it in an airtight container. The napkin soaks up the extra moisture, preventing the coriander from turning soggy or bad, while the box maintains the humidity. This simple technique will help in keeping coriander fresh and crispy, vibrant for up to two weeks at least. This trick is best for those who love using fresh garnishing every day without regular visits to the store.
(Image credits: Freepik)
Store In A Glass Jar With Water
Cut the stems off the coriander and place them in a small jar or bottle with an inch of water, the same way you might keep flowers fresh. Cover it loosely with a plastic bag and keep it in the refrigerator. This process keeps the coriander hydrated without making the leaves go damp and soggy. The stems absorb the water, remaining firm, whereas the leaves maintain their freshness and natural aroma. It is like giving your coriander a spa day.
Freeze In Herb Cubes
If you have more coriander than you can use, don’t let it go to waste; just freeze it. Simply finely chop some leaves, mix with a bit of water or oil, and pour this mixture into ice cube trays. Once it is frozen, transfer these coriander ice cubes to zip-lock bags. These cubes are best for putting into curries, soups, or even stir-fries. It seals in both the flavour and nutrients while saving time during busy days.
(Image credits: Freepik)
Use Cloth Bags
Avoid stuffing coriander in plastic bags, which trap extra moisture, leading to the leaves rotting at an unimaginable speed; instead, opt for breathable cotton or muslin bags. These help in the circulation of gentle air, lowering humidity, and stopping the leaves from turning sludgy. It is an age-old trick from Indian households where herbs remained garden-fresh for longer, even when refrigerators were not in existence.
Wash Only Before Use
It is in habit to wash the coriander right after buying it, but that additional water becomes its biggest enemy. Rather, remove the roots and soil, wrap them dry, and keep them in the refrigerator without washing. Rinse only the amount you wish to use. This small change in habit can easily prolong the shelf life of coriander leaves by several days, keeping them fragrant and fresh for every garnish.
(Image credits: Freepik)
