How to store cilantro + Buy, Cut, Use

1. Buy a bunch of cilantro leaves or cut from homegrown plant. Cut the root if any. Pick leaves that are green and crisp.

How to clean cilantro

1. Open the cilantro bunch, and wash the leaves well under cold water or in a large bowl of cold water (keep the bunch together, so it is easier to handle later). You might want to wash 2-3 times to remove all grit.
2. Transfer the cilantro to a strainer or shake well to remove all excess water.
3. Spread on a kitchen towel without overlapping as much as possible. Pick out any brown or yellow leaves while spreading. Pat dry with paper towels, and use right away.
4. You can also let the cilantro leaves air dry completely before storing. You might want to turn them once so they dry completely.

How to cut cilantro

1. Place the cilantro on a cutting board. Trim the bottom stems of cilantro using a sharp knife. Save the stems to make chutneys, broth or add to soups. Refrigerate or freeze in a contianer or ziploc lined with paper towel.
2. Chop the leaves coarsely using a sharp knife, so as to not bruise them while chopping.

Store in refrigerator - without washing

1. Lay the cilantro evenly on top of a large paper towel keeping the stems on one side. Start rolling from one to the other like a pinwheel.
2. Place the rolled paper towel inside an airtight plastic bag (or ziploc) and seal it. Refrigerate in the crisper section. Check once a week or whenever you use to remove any browned leaves.
3. This method works to keep cilantro for up to 2 weeks. Wash cilantro before using.

Store in refrigerator - in a jar or glass of water

1. Fill a jar or glass with 1-2 inch water. Put the bunch of cilantro into the water, so that the stems are immersed.
2. Cover the leaves with a plastic bag. Tie a knot to secure the bag over the leaves. Check the water level every few days and add more water or change water if needed.
3. This method can be used for washed or unwashed cilantro. If not washing before storing, then wash before use. The cilantro can be preserved this way for 2-3 weeks.

Store in refrigerator - chopped cilantro (my preferred method)

1. This method is great if you use cilantro frequently such as for Indian or Mexican food. Dry the cilantro completely before chopping to store with this method.
2. Chop the cilantro coarsely using a sharp knife.
3. Line a paper towel in an airtight container. Place the cilantro in the container making sure to not pack too much. Cover with a paper towel and refrigerate.
4. You can also place a egg in the container as it helps to absorb moisture.
5. Check every week or whenever you use to remove any browned leaves. This method works well to store cilantro for up to 3 weeks.

Using stored cilantro

1. Sometimes stored cilantro can look wilted. To make it look fresh, place it in a bowl of ice-cold water for 5 minutes. The cilantro will look fresh and crisp.