Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last 20 years you’re probably familiar with Cilantro. Also known as Chinese Parsley, Cilantro is widely used in cuisines across the globe including Asia, Africa, India and the Mediterranean. Brought to North America by Spanish explorers, Cilantro is an integral part of Mexican cooking and has become increasingly popular in American kitchens.

What Does Cilantro Taste Like?

Cilantro has a fresh, vibrant flavor that’s has been described in many different ways. Some describe it as citrusy, while others suggest that it has an earthy flavor with notes of pepper and mint. Certainly taste can be subjective and the flavor of this herb can vary depending on the region in which it’s grown.

Interestingly there are some that hate cilantro and perceive the flavor to be soapy. According to the New York Times, Cilantro haters have a genetic difference and perceive the flavor differently… So take this into consideration when preparing a Cilantro cocktail for you or your guests!

How to Pronounce Cilantro

If you’re planning the creation of Cilantro cocktails, it ‘s probably a good idea to have the pronunciation down. Although this herb is fairly popular in today’s kitchens and bars we wouldn’t want you looking like a total dufus in front of your guess, would we?

 

 

Cilantro Cocktails: Flexible With Many Spirits

Cilantro has a distinct, pungent flavor which will stand up well to a number of spirits. As a result you’ll be able to create a range of Cilantro cocktails that should appeal to a wide variety of people. In particular you’ll find that this herb can be found in a variety of cocktails using rum and tequila.

2 Cilantro Cocktail Recipes to Get You Started

Cilantro Mojito

Although the Cuban version uses Mint, this Cilantro Mojito is unique spin on the traditional sweet and sour island treat.

Ingredients

• ¼ C. Fresh Cilantro Leaves
• 1/2 Lime, Cut Into Thirds
• 1 Tsp. Sugar
• ½ oz. Simple Syrup
• Crushed Ice
• 10 oz. Highball Glass
• 2 oz. White Rum
• 4 oz, Club Soda

Preparation

• Lightly Muddle Cilantro, 1 Lime Wedge and Sugar in a Cocktail Shaker
• Add One More Lime Wedge and Simple Syrup; Lightly Muddle Again
• Fill the Glass ¾ Full With Crushed Ice
• Add Rum and Cilantro Lime Mixture
• Top with Club Soda
• Garnish With Lime Wedge

Jalapeno Cilantro Margarita

Not for the faint of heart, this Cilantro cocktail is sure to resonate with fans of Mexican and spicy food.

Ingredients

• 1 Lime, Juiced
• ½ oz. Cilantro Infused Simple Syrup*
• 2 oz. Blanco Tequila
• ¼ Jalapeno Pepper, Sliced
• Cracked Ice
• Margarita Coupe Glass
• Lime Wheel & Sprig of Cilantro

*Cilantro Infused Cilantro Syrup

Bring 1 Cup Sugar and 1 Cup Water to a Slow Boil in a Saucepan. Reduce heat to a Simmer; Add 1 Cup of Fresh Cilantro to a Simmer for 5 – 10 Minutes. Let Cool & Store in the Fridge.

Preparation

• Combine All Ingredients in a Cocktail Shaker
• Shake Vigorously & Strain Into Chilled Coupe Glass
• Garnish With Lime Wheel & Sprig of Cilantro