The Soup Queen

Do you like cilantro or coriander? Most people hate this herb because it is pungent. And most people mistake this herb for parsley. The tiny sprouts of this herb are usually served as a garnish on top of steamed chicken, Cantonese-style. I never found out that this was cilantro until I asked my vegetable vendor in the market.  When I was young, I hated the smell of coriander. It seemed too strong, too pungent. It smelled a bit like bugs.  But then it seems our taste buds change as we grow older.  I started to like coriander. There are times that I actually craved coriander. I'd go to the fridge and pull out a bunch and start eating them! I believe I was lacking iron so my body told me to go get some iron!  Coriander to me is the leaves of the herb. Another manifestation of coriander is coriander seeds or biji ketumbar (in Malay language) which you probably use if you cook curries or grind your own spices.  I use ground coriander...